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Just by walking through the streets of Harlem nowadays, you can see how things are changing. The physical restoration of Harlem is clearly seen through the presence of new buildings and construction sites. Besides corporal modifications, such as construction, there are other forms of transformations appearing in the community. The artistic culture is becoming more mainstream in today's urban society. Expanding the Walls is one of many programs that exist to help familiarize ordinary people with these creative resources. Expanding the Walls also has a lot to offer the elderly. The program offers senior citizens a chance to come in and reflect on Harlem's past. They are given a chance to view VanDerZee's work and relive something that existed during their heyday. A time where society mirrored the type of morality taught in the home. The seasoned people who participate in this particular program are brought from establishments such as Harlem Hospital and various other senior centers.
Expanding the Walls is an acceptional program that offers so much to those willing to get involved. There is so much that can be learned through the art of photography. This program is an example of meaningful restoration that the Harlem community could use.
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Expanding
the Walls is a multi-layered, intergenerational program that attempts
to discuss issues within the community through photography. The program
is designed to explore the realms of American history, photography,
culture, identity and community. The discussion of issues within the
African-American community through photography is the main objective
of Expanding the Walls. Its teenage participants are encouraged to capture
snapshots of their community! One of the six perspective photographers,
Charlene Carter, had many positive things to say about her experience.
She got involved in the program because of her interest in photography.
She also felt that discussing community issues with people her own age
was a great concept. Charlene feels that the program has helped her
to gain social and public speaking skills by being actively involved
in the community.
During
the June 26th art exhibition, the young photographers' work was showcased
along with the work of the program's main proprietor, James VanDerZee.
The photos of the great photographer and the students were set up in
such a way that they seemed to be having dialogues with each other.
VanDerZee was known for taking pictures that portrayed the Harlem community
as being vibrant, full of hope, and quite dignified. These students,
following in his footsteps, tried and succeeded in capturing the same
essence that Harlem possesses in his photos.
Families
are also encouraged to participate in ETW. This feature is designed
to cultivate the bond between parent and child. Family groups partake
in the program by taking interactive gallery tours of the VanDerZee
collection, walking tours of Harlem, and getting involved in hands-on
art making activities. 