Embracing the Arts
Semaj Carter’s photograph (left) entitled, “Smooth Southern Boy”, was recognized in Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s (BGCA) 2020 National Arts Contest, specifically its ImageMakers National Photograph Contest. Tamiyah Crawley’s photograph (right), entitled, “Street Sunset” was also recognized in the ImageMakers National Photograph Contest. She used her phone to capture this unexpected moment while taking a walk at sunset.
For as long as Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond (BGCMR) has existed, the organization has provided a variety of fine arts activities for members of all ages – from drawing and painting to photography, music and drama. Each program is designed to provide youth enlightening experiences to unleash their creativity, self-expression and voice in ways they could never imagine.
“A few years ago we elevated Youth Voice as a programmatic theme and focus at BGCMR,” said Sean Miller, Chief Operating Officer. “We have strategically and intentionally created opportunities for Youth Voice to be heard loud and clear through the various expressions of art (photography, spoken word, painting, drawing, dancing). I am thrilled that our children have embraced the ability to tell a story with or without words.”
One example of BGCMR’s Arts programs is its partnership with VMFA. VMFA’s Teens Out Loud initiative that is underwritten by Chase features performance and visual arts workshops for youth participants of Boys & Girls Clubs of Metro Richmond. The partnership program was launched last year and will continue this year virtually and possibly in small in-person groups with CDC safety guidelines in place.
In addition, BGCMR partners with Art 180, a non-profit organization that provides youth, ages 8 to 18, programs to channel their creativity, while helping them realize their ability to share their stories with others through their creative works. With BGCMR, the organization focuses on activities that teach members social and emotional learning skills through art, music and more.
With these type of programs, it’s no surprise that BGCMR members shined brightly last year with their art talents and skills.
“We have strategically and intentionally created opportunities for Youth Voice to be heard loud and clear through the various expressions of art (photography, spoken word, painting, drawing, dancing).”
BGCA National Arts Contest
Two of our Club members – Semaj Carter (11 years old) and Tamiyah Crawley (17 years old) – were recognized in Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s (BGCA) 2020 National Arts Contest, specifically its ImageMakers National Photography Contest. The year-round program encourages Club members ages 6 to 18 to learn and practice black-and-white, color, digital and alternative process photography. Last year the contest yielded approximately 4,000 entries from local Clubs and Youth Centers on military installations overseas. Selected artwork was screened at the regional level, and a limited number sent to BGCA’s Atlanta headquarters for judging at the national level.
Semaj has been a member at our Southside Club for five years. Using a camera from his friend, Semaj’s entry named “Smooth Southern Boy” was recognized in the Fashion and Style category. He says he has been doing photography for about two years and likes to explore different angles and use sunlight to photograph people. He pointed out that he submitted an entry last year, so he was very proud of this year’s accomplishment and will continue to pursue photography because he enjoys taking really good pictures of people.
Tamiyah, a member at our Southside Club for nine years, was recognized in the Nature & Surroundings category. Tamiyah’s entry – named “Street Sunset” – was taken with her phone because she saw the perfect photo opportunity when she least expected it walking one day at sunset. She explained that she walked by a wall with graffiti and a branch that provided contrast with the bright light from the sun. Tamiyah says she likes photography because she can express herself and finds it “calming and peaceful to get the perfect picture.”
As national winning artists, both Semaj and Tamiyah will receive a framed copy of their artwork made possible by Michael’s.
Budget cuts over the years have reduced arts programs offered through public education. BGCMR continues to provide these critical opportunities so opportunity youth can pursue their passions.
“We are so proud of Semaj and Tamiyah for exploring their creativity and seeing their hard work being recognized widely,” said Miller. “What they have accomplished is proof that the arts give youth an important platform to express themselves and an important developmental opportunity to succeed in life.”
“We are so proud of Semaj and Tamiyah for exploring their creativity and seeing their hard work being recognized widely.”