Sunderland college students are unravelling the tapestry of Wearside

Sunderland College students have captured striking images as part of their foundation degree photography show exhibition. The shots are the culmination of three years’ study and will go on display, at the Arts Academy at Sunderland College’s Bede Campus, next month. The show features a mix of local landscapes by Amy Pattison; a set of images taken for a dancewear supplier modelled by dancers by Andy Laycock; a documentary piece on a hostel for the homeless by Kevin Hancill; food photography by Josephine Hardwick and fashion portraits by Stacy Terry. Speaking of her fashion shots, Stacy said: “My work is based on a fashion design student who is also a drag queen. I decided to take some portraits of this incredible young man named Andrew Duncan that I had met through photographing his fashion images for him. From a young age Andrew knew that he was different and didn’t quite fit in with the other boys. “Once he discovered the art of drag he finally knew who he really was and importantly what makes him happy.” Kevin Hancill put the Salvation Army Swan Lodge hostel in High Street East in the frame for his work. He said: “Swan Lodge is referred to as a life house, that not only provides accommodation, but also offers support training and advice to homeless people. The life house gives a place of safety, it offers a resting place, hope and a breathing space where its residents can begin the sometimes long and slow process of rebuilding their lives.” Robin Cowings, associate programme leader, said: “I think the images they’ve produced are absolutely fantastic. As part of the course they learn to exhibit work professionally to a high standard, which is part of their education, so this exhibition is a great experience for them. “It’s not just about taking great photos, they learn how photography exists in the real world, the practicalities of running a business, copyright laws. This is a part-time evening course spread over three years. A lot are mature students who are mums and dads, so this is a long term commitment from them.” Speaking about the changing face of photography, he said: “People taking photos on digital cameras has become part of the modern world. Although the students use digital cameras and photoshop they also use film cameras and learn how to process film. They also learn about the history of photography. They learn about the famous photographers, what makes them great, and hopefully they can absorb that into their own works.” • The photography degree show will be exhibited alongside BTEC Fashion students work for two weeks at Bede Centre Arts Academy and launches with a preview evening on Thursday, June 9 at 6pm until 8.30pm. Everyone welcome.