Poems and PICTURES

A NEW CLASS BY JAMES PROCHNIK

CLASS DESCRIPTION

In Mary Oliver’s poem Sometimes, she writes:

Instructions for living a life:

Pay attention.

Be astonished.

Tell about it.

While Oliver’s words are clear-eyed guidance for anyone seeking a more abundant life, in this class, we’ll read them as a manifesto for making better photographs.

Over six weeks, we’ll explore how Oliver’s instructions are only one example of the countless insights and perspectives keen-eyed poets offer photographers. 

Looking at pictures and poems together, we’ll learn how strategies, themes, and forms poets have used for millennia can be a bountiful and generative resource for photographers seeking to describe the world and express themselves with new depth and sensitivity.

We’ll also look at the work of photographers whose lyrical approach to photography is deeply informed by the poet’s eye.

Most importantly, each student will make and share new work for upcoming classes that builds on the poetic insights and inspirations we’ve learned in previous meetings.

"If your pictures are not good enough, you aren't reading enough." —Tod Papageorge

✓Small Class Size - six students max

✓Office Hours / Photo book talk following every class

✓Access to Zoom recordings after class

✓Recap Emails with links and more information on topics discussed in class for further exploration

✓All levels of photographers welcome!