This summer, we are pleased to welcome Free Arts NYC for a weekend of large format Polaroid portraiture at the Museum. In addition to being available to VIP supporters at the Family Fair Fundraiser, patrons can purchase a family photo session on July 21 to 23 that benefits Free Arts NYC. In preparation for the almost 20-year-old non-profit’s visit to the Museum, we wanted to learn more about the organization’s mission, the camera, and what makes these images so unique.
Tell us more about the organization and the ways you bring arts and mentorship programming into underserved communities in NYC.
Free Arts NYC empowers underserved youth through art and mentoring programs to develop their creativity, confidence, and skills to succeed. One of the unique things about Free Arts is that we pair volunteer mentors 1-1 with every child that participates in our programs.
Our Teen Program provides access to arts education and job readiness skills, and serves as a pathway for teens interested in pursuing the arts academically or professionally. Our Free Arts Days are one-day art festivals for up to 150 kids, held at our community partner sites where we pair volunteer mentors with a child to create art projects inspired by a theme.
Tell us a little bit about the camera and what makes these photo sessions so unique?
The 20×24 camera stands apart from other large format experiences because it delivers an instant finished giant photograph that truly captures a moment in time. The photos are one-of-a-kind, and the resolution is remarkable. The film exhibits minor imperfections around the edges, but many artists consider these to be special characteristics of the format and distinguish it from the sterile feel of digital photography and printing. The 20×24 Studio has announced that they will be running out of film at the end of 2017.
How did Free Arts get involved with the 20 x 24 camera?
Many years ago when Polaroid was still in business we approached them about using the camera. Over the years we have introduced over 30 artists like Christopher Wool, Marilyn Minter, James Nares, and Julian Schnabel to the format and asked then to shoot one-of-kind images that we sold to raise money for our programs. Since then we have maintained a relationship with the camera and many of the artists.
What was the genesis for making the photo sessions available on the East End?
We have historically hosted the camera at our yearly family fundraiser in the City, which has been a great success. Bringing the camera to the East End allows us to share this special photographic experience with even more families and ultimately helps us raise additional funds for our yearly programming.
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20 x 24 Large Format Polaroid Camera
Polaroid Portrait Sessions Available:
Friday, July 21st – Sunday, July 23rd
For questions about the camera or to reserve your time slot, please contact gea@freeartsnyc.org or visit www.freeartsnycpolaroidportraits.org.