The Columbia College Chicago Photography Department traveled in April 2016, to Wilson, North Carolina, delivering photography workshops for one week to over 100 students of St. John’s CDC Save-A-Youth after school program.

Students, age 10 to 15, received a brief and concentrated presentation from the Chair of Photography, then, along with a trained instructor, explored downtown in small groups with Canon Rebel digital cameras, making photographs of the people, architecture, and nature of Historic Downtown Wilson.

The results of the project were exhibited at a gallery opening as part of the Eyes on Main Street Photo Festival. A complete archive will be given to the city of Wilson which will stand not only as a historic marker for the city but also a vivid reflection of the true potential in the students and community.

This project was made possible through the generous sponsorship of Canon USA's Rebel With a Cause program, providing instruction, cameras, and equipment, along with Hahnemühle's donation of fine art paper.