Lead Department
- Fine Art and Applied Art
Coordinated by
Pádraig Spillane (padraig.spillane@mtu.ie)
Active Members
5
Purpose
The Photography Learning Community at MTU Crawford College of Art and Design Fine Art and Applied Art aims to support and enhance photographic education and research within Fine Art and Contemporary Applied Art. This initiative brings together lecturers, students, and industry professionals to explore photographic processes, sustainability, and interdisciplinary approaches to image-making.
Key objectives include:
- Developing a strong research and teaching community in photographic practice.
- Encouraging collaboration between Fine Art and Contemporary Applied Art students and staff.
- Hosting workshops and guest presentations to explore photography’s role in contemporary art and applied practices.
- Supporting sustainable photographic practices, including hybrid analogue-digital workflows.
- Providing professional development opportunities through networking and engagement with industry professionals.
- Facilitating exhibitions, film screenings, and discussions around contemporary photographic work.
Summary
The Learning Community will operate monthly meetings with structured activities, including:
- Film screenings related to photography.
- Presentations by guest curators to discuss photography’s role in contemporary art.
- Talks from past graduates to offer insights into professional opportunities.
- A Sustainable Darkroom Workshop to explore eco-conscious photographic techniques.
- A study trip to Photo Museum Ireland or PhotoIreland to expose students to cutting-edge photographic practices.
This initiative aligns with recent renovations to MTU Crawford’s darkroom and hybrid workspaces, which will enable analogue-digital workflow integration. With the N-TUTORR award for new photography equipment, this Learning Community will help shape the future of photographic education at MTU Crawford.
By fostering a collaborative and research-driven environment, this Learning Community will support students and staff in developing innovative photographic methodologies while strengthening connections to the wider photography and art industry.
