Discussion #1 – Jennifer Quito

1. Discuss how does Dawoud Bey approach the idea of using photography as a way of finding his voice. Describe one of his projects and the impact he sought to create with that project.

There are plenty of ways humans can experience the world from sight, touch, taste, hearing and smell. For Dawoud Bey it was his eyes. Dawoud Bey did not see his lose of hearing as a disadvantage but instead saw it as an advantage in his craft. He was able to analyze and capture moments others would miss. With his eye he was able to capture human moments that convey depth and meaning. He did exactly that in the Night Coming Tenderly, Black project where he photographed the underground railroad. Unlike his other photos there were no human faces. Instead the photos are dark and full of trees. His photographs placed the viewer in the middle of a underground pathway that slaves used to move around. He wanted to capture the fear and the unsureness they would have felt when running because they had no idea if they would make it.

1. Discuss how Carrie Mae Weems uses photography to find her voice.Describe the kitchen table project and the impact that she sought to create with the project.

Carrie Mae Weems uses photography to find her voice by capturing change and what she thought needed to happen. The kitchen table project was a bunch of daily life photos that consist of a table and single light source. They followed the role and activities of a black women. The photos did a great job of showing the social norms women are forced to abide by. Carrie Mae photography did not only cater black women but women in general. Carrie Mae wanted to open the conversation about the role of a women in a household environment. She showed the viewer both sides, but wanted them to leave with the possibility of change because throughout history men have always held the power.

1. How can you find your own voice ?

As a student I am still exploring ventures to figure out where I shine the most. I have realized that finding something that you both love and are great at takes time. Some things I have done to speed up that process and to find my voice is putting myself in uncomfortable settings and exploring every interest I have. I have also found my voice through clothes. Maybe for others the process of picking out an outfit does not matter but for me it is a way I communicate with others. I am very quiet and clothes have always been a getaway for me to express how I am feeling or my mood. Whether I talk or not my clothes do a great job of talking for me figuratively not literally.