Penobscot Bay Community Health Partnerships (PBCHP) announces the successful culmination of two youth photovoice projects, in collaboration with the Center for Maine Contemporary Art (CMCA).

“With students from St. George School and Oceanside Middle School, these initiatives have illustrated the power of photography and creativity in fostering resilience and deepening community connection,” said PBCHP, in a news release.  

Oceanside Middle School’s project, carried out by ACEs art students and led by Mia Bogyo, will be celebrated through an art gallery exhibition hosted by CMCA at the Rock City Café in Rockland, running from February 9 to April 9. This exhibition will include artist statements elucidating the motivations behind each student’s photographic journey.

At St. George School, eighth-grade students delved into the intrinsic connection between nature and community, channeling their insights into an impactful installation displayed within their school premises, with plans for further showcasing at the YMCA later this year.

PBCHP, the community outreach department of the Penobscot Bay YMCA, is committed to using projects like photovoice to empower and uplift youth in Knox and Waldo counties. This project aims to address 2023 MIYHS findings, which revealed that 31.2% of Knox County high schoolers experience sadness or hopelessness. Of these, 61.2% report not seeking help from an adult. Photovoice uses film photography to gives middle school youth a platform to feel heard, highlights the positive community activities and places teens enjoy, and reinforces the concept that fun can be substance-free. In the past, PBCHP has also pioneered photovoice projects with The Landing Place, Homeless Coalition, and Trekkers.

Center for Maine Contemporary Art is dedicated to advancing contemporary art in Maine through direct engagement with artists and the public, creating exceptional exhibitions and education programs that communicate the transformative power of the art of our time. CMCA fulfills its mission by supporting and exhibiting the work of artists with ties to Maine; by providing engaging learning opportunities that open new possibilities for artists and visitors; and by serving as an essential platform for making art an accessible and vital part of our communities.

Prevention efforts funded by Maine CDC.