Budding photographers from Cardiff’s communities are getting the chance to showcase their creativity thanks to an exciting project from Wales’ leading science discovery centre.
Educational charity Techniquest, based in Cardiff Bay, is challenging amateur photographers to capture what science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) means to them as part of a new project celebrating the talent of the local communities.
The Techniquest Community Photo Project aims to break down barriers that prevent people from participating in STEM-related activities, and reach new audiences to create a more inclusive approach to Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Maths (STEAM).
The centre is calling on keen photographers to take a photo, or portrait, of someone they know with a STEM interest or background, with 10 photographs being chosen for a special exhibition in Techniquest in May.
In honour of the endeavour, the science discovery centre unveiled the project at an exciting community-focused event with its partners Hydrock, Wardell Armstrong and HLM Architects during British Science Week on March 10.
With additional exhibitors and activities bringing people closer to interactive STEM-related experiences, the centre invited those in its local communities to enjoy the festivities.
The photography project is part of the organisation’s multi-million pound Science Capital mission, a project that encompasses a radical transformation and extension of its current building in Cardiff Bay as it continues its goals of making science accessible to all.
Clare James, Head of Engagement and Partnerships at Techniquest said the project has received an “overwhelming response”.
She said: “We’re thrilled to be engaging with our communities in such a creative way, making science related experiences more accessible to those around us. We’re encouraging everybody to take part, and photos can be taken anywhere – whether it’s in a studio, a public area, or even in your own home, it’s that easy! We’re sure the submissions are going to be very revealing in terms of composition and discovering the breadth of STEM-related professions and activities within our local communities.
“Thanks to our involvement with the OF/BY/FOR ALL global initiative, we’ve been able to explore new ways to connect with our community and this project is a fantastic starting point. We’re specifically looking forward to nurturing our relationships in Riverside, Butetown and Grangetown, engaging with those on our doorstep.
“We’ve had an overwhelming response already and we enjoyed having the chance to tell people about it at our community event this week. We’re also looking forward to meeting all of our local photographers at the launch event on May 12th with our partners, who supported this project with incredible enthusiasm.”
Gareth Woodfin, regional lead for Wales at HLM, said: “We’re proud to be working with Techniquest and to have sponsored its Community Day. It provides a wonderful opportunity for local people of all ages to get hands on with this unique facility and explore how science and technology touches our lives every day.”
For more information on how to take part, please go to: https://www.techniquest.org/blog/techniquest-community-photography-project/
