Picture this: An alternative assignment
This weekend I visited two photo exhibits at the Dahl - one a series of shots exploring the theme of mountains (with our own Mr. Jensen taking first place in the professional division, and I hear the youth winners are peers of yours, though I don’t know them myself), the other a series of portraits done by local photographer Chris Benson. We’ve used photos a number of times in this class, we’re not finished with them yet, and I’d like you to head to the Dahl and take a long look at everything. Leave nothing unconsidered - light, color, emotion, and the story behind each picture. Those stories ooze from each portrait, and I’m guessing the portraits (maybe even of someone you know) will engender the most thought and reaction from you. Thus, if you choose this assignment, the first part is to wander through the Dahl slowly. Make sure you circle the Benson exhibit twice and return to your favorite mountain photos a second time as well. Look for something different the second time you observe a photograph.
When you’ve finished, I’d like you to write a thoughtful reaction to the exhibits. I will not prescribe a way to react - you could write a straight reaction essay, a meandering reflection, a story inspired by a particular photo, a poem or two that come from your viewing, or even a song. Whatever it is, post it to your blog and include in the post two links: one to the exhibit website (follow the hyperlink at the top of this article) and one back to this assignment description.
When you submit this assignment, it will replace one of the 20 or 25 point Mockingbird blog articles. You’ll still be responsible for the other Mockingbird assignments (like the double entry journals and quizzes) but this can replace a blog posting. If you have any questions, ask me or email me.
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