The Courage to See: A Fotophase Talk + Photo Walk with John Abernathy
About this Event
The Courage to See
A Fotophase Talk + Photo Walk with John Abernathy
What can a camera reveal about the world in front of us—and about the person behind it?
Join Fotophase and photographer John Abernathy for a talk and guided photo walk exploring photography as a practice of attention, reflection and connection.
Abernathy describes the camera as pointing in two directions. It allows us to observe our surroundings while also noticing what is happening within us: what invites our presence, what creates tension, what evokes curiosity and how our perspective changes as we move through an experience.
The talk will be followed by a guided neuroarts-based photo walk.
The group will reconvene at Tamarkin Camera for a facilitated reflection.
About Fotophase
Fotophase is a nonprofit organization exploring how the act of making photographs can support reflection, agency, connection and well-being for people living through trauma, illness, transition or stress.
This program reflects Fotophase’s commitment to photography practiced as an aesthetic experience that engages attention, perception, emotion and meaning-making. By combining image-making with guided reflection and community conversation, Fotophase creates opportunities for participants to notice how they relate to themselves, their surroundings and one another.
The goal is not to position photography as therapy or a substitute for mental-health care. It is to explore photography as an accessible creative practice that may help people become more present, curious and connected.
What to Bring
- A camera & SD Card (or smartphone )
- A notebook and pen
Participants may be invited to complete brief, anonymous reflections before and after the experience to help Fotophase's mission.
No professional camera or prior photography experience is required. Bring any camera you are comfortable using, including a smartphone.
About John Abernathy
John Abernathy is an independent documentary photographer whose work examines moments of social change, public response and human connection. His practice is shaped by an interest in what becomes visible when a photographer remains present during difficult, uncertain and emotionally charged experiences.
Through his photographs and personal storytelling, Abernathy considers the camera both a witness to the world and a reflective instrument—one that can reveal how attention, fear, empathy and personal history influence what a photographer chooses to see.
Content and Care Notice
This program will include personal discussion and documentary images related to loss, trauma, social unrest, state or police action and emotionally difficult experiences. Participants are encouraged to make choices that support their own well-being, including stepping away from the talk or photo walk when needed.
Photo credit: Pierre Lavie
B&W Photo credit: John Abernathy
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00
