Groups of young people aged 12 to 19 used outdoor photography to make sense of the world and express themselves as part of Frame of Mind. Inspired by the detail in objects ranging from Sri Lankan shadow puppets to Victorian clocks, the young photographers were invited to explore the world around them in an entirely new way. Some of their photography has now been brought together for a digital exhibition on Showcase.
“The project is not a search for perfection. We wanted an antidote to the culture of showcasing rapid snaps of flawless faces without context or character. This is a chance to look slowly and outwards at the cycles of nature. It’s all about enjoying your own creativity and curiosity, and taking a pause to feel grounded on the planet.”
RAMM Engagement Officer Ruth Gidley
Looking closely at objects and then at nature and the world around us can boost wellbeing. Supported by art therapists and a photographer from Exeter-based Youth Arts & Health Trust (YAHT), the young photographers combined their cameras with mindfulness, using the museum as a starting point.
“This project has helped me to express my emotions and share the beautiful world with others”
Young photographer
The mindful photography methodology has been pioneered by Somerset-based Look Again. This digital exhibition touches on a variety of subjects from wildlife and water to shadows and time. Anyone can have a go at the mindful photography ideas and inspiration on the Frame of Mind Instagram page @rammframeofmind or post their own photos to #rammframeofmind
“I liked the range of themes used to take photos. It allowed me to notice and focus on things I hadn’t noticed before.”
Young photographer
YAHT and Exeter College say there has been a huge increase in mental health challenges among young people since 2019, and it can be hard to access help. Many people of all ages have found a wellbeing benefit in creativity.
When Frame of Mind began during Covid-19 restrictions, some young people were so keen to join in that they dialled into online sessions from campsites and camper vans!
“[Thank you] for facilitating this mindful photography course. My daughter was completely against it when I initially told her about it, but eventually she agreed to give it a go. Yesterday she said, ‘I hate to say it, but you were right about the course. Mum. I really love it’. Best words ever from my anxious little girl.”
Mother of a teenager on the project
Museums around the country tap into resources and research gathered by the Culture Health and Wellbeing Alliance. RAMM’s wellbeing programme includes mindfulness around museum objects – available on audio – and a longstanding dementia-friendly outreach programme.
The partnership with YAHT and Joe Blatherwick Photography has been supported by Exeter College.
Frame of Mind was funded generously by Arts Council England, The Arts Society Exeter, Exeter City Council, Norman Family Trust and Northbrook Community Trust.
We would like to thank all the fantastic young people that have taken part in Frame of Mind. Thank you to the young photographers who shared their images and words in the exhibition.
You can explore Frame of Mind on Showcase now until 4 September 2022.
