A new night school is expected to open in Salford this month, and will be led by renowned local photographer intending to encourage new artists.
The new night school that will be opened photographer and artist Simon Buckley will bring the community together through the a series of photography courses.
The first courses offered by Not Quite Light (NQL) are called ‘Learn Urban Night Photography’ and ‘Take Better Photos’ that will begin on Wednesday 16 October.
With the sessions hoping to encourage those interested in photography to either develop their passion for photography or new comers to explore something new.
As he said: “Setting up the NQL Night School, I am hoping to not only encourage people to try out something new, or give hobbyists a boost to their skills, but also perhaps inspire a new career.
The experience of photography he spoke about the benefits it has had on him, as he added: “That feeling, that experience, is something I consider to be of real benefit to my mental health and which drives deeper my connection with where I live and work.”
And with the benefits it has offered him, he wanted to give back to the community he is immersed in, he continued: “it has become something I could see value in sharing with the local community by enabling access to photography as a hobby, or even a profession.”
Want to take better photos, or edit video like a pro? Then you need to come to Nightschool at NQL HQ, down at @islingtonmill – starting first week of October. Early bird tickets available.
More details here https://t.co/3rPOKmQk7I pic.twitter.com/HCpqAA0bzs
— NOT QUITE LIGHT – NQL (@NotQuiteLight) July 19, 2024
Having lived in Salford and Manchester for most of life, Simon commented on the impact that the surrounding influences have had on his work.
As he continued: “Salford is the city of Lowry and Harold Riley, so it has a great cultural heritage, and you can sense this in the community.
“As the city continues to benefit from investment to support its regeneration, there’s a tangible energy around the place.
“However, I am entirely aware that alongside that positivity is the reality of people living here who face social challenges and financial hardship.”
His experiences throughout the city can not be overlooked, after delivering a well-known three year photography project called the Not Quite Light for the Muse.
The project captured the transformation of a derelict surface carpark in the city into Eden, the UK’s most sustainable office building complete with its record-breaking living wall.
With work such as this it should only encourage more to attend the launch of the NQL Night School, as Simon wanted to encourage to bring people together and explore the art in an urban environment.
However, those who wish to participate should take great encouragement in participating, with the nationwide place maker Muse, sponsoring the night school and subsidising 25% of the places.
The subsidies have been made to encourage many to get involved, as it intends to allow those who might be restricted by cost to get involved.
Following the sponsorship, Phil Marsden, MD Muse North West commented: “Capturing the essence of Salford and its people – a place brimming with pride and passion, a place where everyone looks out for and supports each other.
“We are proud to be supporting this first series of courses with the NQL Night School and look forward to seeing what comes next!”
For more information about the project, you can visit the website to book here or email – notquitelight@gmail.com
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