Through Our Lens is the first ‘episode’ of the street gallery project, with further episodes curated by the street gallery steering group over the next year. Our Street Gallery brings to life the incredible work created thanks to Bradford Council’s RESPONSE grants.

Shipley-based photographer Carolyn came up with idea for the project at the beginning of lockdown and following an initial call out on social media and collaboration with Bradford College, Carolyn has now mentored more than 40 young people across the Bradford district in photography using Zoom and running workshop sessions every week. The resulting images posted on the project’s Instagram page as well as on a week-long takeover on Impressions Gallery’s Instagram page.

The teenagers represent a spectrum of socio-economic groups, including a number of refugees who moved to the district just six months ago only to be plunged straight into isolation as the pandemic took hold. The documentary style images offer a glimpse into teenage life in lockdown; some have focused on expressive self-portraits while others have photographed their families, bedrooms and outdoor surroundings when taking their daily exercise.

Impressions Director, Anne McNeill says, “Carolyn has used her skills to help isolated teens make their thoughts, feelings and experiences visible. She’s ignited a passion for photography in them that will grow going forward and has given us the photographers of the future.”

Our Street Gallery is supported by Bradford Council; Impressions Gallery; Bradford 2025 and Bradford-based design studios Lee Goater and Split Design.