Students meet photographer Andy Gotts
Wed, 12 November 2014
Photography students had an unexpected surprise when they visited Andy Gotts MBE ‘Behind The Mask’ Exhibition at the Lowry last week.
Tameside College Photography students were lucky enough to meet the photographer behind the work they went to view at the exhibition. Andy Gotts took time out of his busy schedule to chat with the students about his work; he also gave the students some useful techniques to implement in their own work which will help their studies.
The Behind the Mask exhibition features a selection of Andy Gotts work from his twenty year career which began assisting David Bailey.
The trip was part of the students’ studies to which they are currently working on Studio brief titled ‘Recreations’. The brief enables students to study the work of other photographers and recreate it in the College studio, developing creative studio photography, knowledge and skills. From the skills and techniques gained students independently create their own images.
Photography tutor Irena said; “It’s an important part of their education to be able to meet and talk directly with industry professionals, when possible we include meetings with photographers, gallery visits, studio visits, and live briefs as much as possible. Live briefs students have been involved in have included Manchester Museum, local charities and businesses.
“The students felt very privileged to have met Andy; they have come away from the exhibition and this fortunate meeting, with inspiration and enthusiasm ready to begin their work.”
Photography student, Tamenay Sheikh commented; “I really enjoyed the exhibition, the images were very beautiful, and I like the fact that none of the work had been retouched, yet the celebrities were captured beautifully with all their imperfections.
“Listening to what Andy had to say about his work and photography itself was very insightful. The work has given me more ideas for the portrait part of the brief and ideas for what style and techniques I could use.”
The students’ final work will be exhibited in the Gallery Space at Tameside College towards the end of December.