After Supper Visions
After Supper Visions is a seasonal photo project that invites a cohort of artists to explore their creativity through photography.
- Each Fall, a volunteer Photo Team introduces the program to guests at the Sister Joyce Dura, O.S.F., Supper Program in downtown Chicago. (The Catholic Charities community meal serves 150 individuals each weeknight.)
- Guests who wish to participate join the cohort and attend classes taught by the volunteer Photo Team, where they learn basics such as lighting, shadows, and how to discover their creative talents as photographers.
- Once guests have taken the classes, they receive a 24-exposure disposable camera, their choice of black/white or color. They are encouraged to keep the camera with them and, when something strikes them as being interesting or beautiful, take a photo.
- Beginning in January, the artists submit their cameras for development and editing. ASV volunteers develop the film and work with the artists to select their 3-4 best prints to be displayed at the annual photo exhibit. The Photo Team makes 8×10 enlargements of all of the photos, mats and frames the photos for an annual exhibit.
- At the public photo exhibit, artists display their photography for sale. All proceeds after costs go to the artists. Every artist finds customers for some of their work.
“The project is an ambitious experiment of exploring the creativity in everyone.”
– A Guest Artist
I really enjoyed the photography show on Friday. I bought two prints. I wish there were something inexpensive the artists could sell at their booths like postcards or something. That way I could have supported multiple artists. Or, you could even have a “tip the artists” option at the event and split it between everyone at the end. That is only a thought. Every single thing about the event was just really lovely and exciting for the participants and I am so impressed by your program.
Hello Sarah-
Thank you for your thoughtful email. We are so glad that you came to the photo exhibition and we are very grateful for your support of the artists. The ASV Photo Team that coordinates this program thinks you have terrific ideas and they will definitely consider them as the program continues. For now, please know how much we appreciate your taking the time to send this note. Please watch this website for future updates on the ASV program.
Gratefully,
Katie Bredemann
Catholic Charities Communications Department