Circle Round the Square 2015
August 12, 2015This summer I had to wonderful opportunity to help document Circle Round the Square. The program, organized by Barbara Campagnola of Paper Circle in Nelsonville, Ohio, is a supplementary arts program for kids. During the camp, they are introduced to and taught various art forms including self-portraiture, Batik, ceramics, theater and photography. After class, their afternoons were spent in taking further elective classes about cooking and papermaking, playing Humans vs. Zombies and playing at Hocking College’s student center.
Honestly, it was difficult at times to photograph the camp as I often was more interested in participating in the art form at hand. That said, I made many happy images and happy moments while in Nelsonville. I spent three weeks with the kids, getting to know them and learning so much from them. I was moved by their ability to discuss art, especially when describing their photographs. I saw the power of photography as a communicative art form first hand. I was taken back to the life of elementary school me and gained a new, awe-inspired perspective on childhood.
By the end of the camp, the kids’ performed the plays they had rehearsed and produced to an audience of family and friends at Stewart’s Opera House. They had a gallery opening that exhibited the culmination of all their weeks of work–an extensive and creative collection of various mediums. The program not only provides engaging activity for these children during the summer, but it also serves as a source of creative fuel and direction. I saw the strength of community fostered between these kids and was amazed. Many face adversity, living in southeastern Ohio, yet this camp lets them make lasting friendships and beautiful art that they could be proud of.
