BAFTA-award winning photographer Alison Jackson launches YOUNG LOCAL ARTISTS exhibition outside Earl’s Court Station by Christabel Milbanke – Milbanke Media
Outside Earl’s Court underground station (Warwick Avenue exit) a stunning series of black and white portraits of local children belonging to the Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea has emerged. This installation marks the launch of YOUNG LOCAL ARTISTS, an initiative founded by renowned BAFTA-award winning photographer Alison Jackson.
Alison Jackson is celebrated for her rebellious approach to photography, particularly her distinctive style of using lookalikes to depict scenes involving celebrities, royalty, and politicians.
However, her latest venture ventures beyond the realm of the familiar, focusing on nurturing young local talent within the local community of the Royal Borough of Kensington & Chelsea.
Young Local Artists aims to discover and uplift young photographers from underprivileged backgrounds, providing them with the tools, guidance, and platform to showcase their skills and perspectives.
At the heart of this endeavor lies a commitment to fostering inclusivity and diversity within the arts. Through workshops and mentorship programs, aspiring photographers aged 4 to 24 are given the chance to explore their passion for photography, regardless of their previous experience or access to resources.
The portraits displayed outside Earl’s Court Underground Station are a culmination of the dedication and talent of these young artists. Each image tells a story, offering a glimpse into the vibrant and dynamic community they represent.
Reflecting on the success of YOUNG LOCAL ARTISTS, Alison Jackson shares her vision for the project: “I started Young Local Artists to give all young people in Kensington and Chelsea an opportunity to unleash their creativity. There is a misconception that the area is filled with wealthy families, but many of the talented young people on the scheme didn’t have access to the equipment or opportunities they needed to shine. I wanted to discover new talent and aspiring photographers with fresh ways of seeing, and I did. The level of talent we’ve unearthed is extraordinary.”
The collaboration between YOUNG LOCAL ARTISTS and The Earls Court Development Company signifies a shared commitment to promoting art and culture within the community. Rob Heasman, CEO of The Earls Court Development Company, emphasizes the importance of such initiatives in enriching the cultural landscape of the area.
Cosmo Gimeno, 23, a past participant of YOUNG LOCAL ARTISTS, reflects on the transformative impact of the program: “I now have a fully equipped studio with the Earls Court Development Company and have a regular freelance job there as a photographer. Alison’s mentoring and support has been life-changing.”
