From May 10 to 25, 2024, Ursula Handleigh, Assistant Professor of Photography in the Faculty of Art, led 11 students on a creative exploration in Manila, Philippines. In partnership with De La Salle-College of St. Benilde, the project "Experiential Photography" encouraged students to deeply engage with alternative and sustainable photographic processes, adapting to the local environment and resources.
Immersive Learning in Manila
Through this collaboration, students experimented with various analogue and slow photography techniques, focusing on sustainable practices. Working with limited resources, they learned to make their own developer recipes using local materials and discovered alternative methods for film processing, such as using Tylenol as a developer and X-ray film as negatives. This hands-on experience allowed students to explore the materiality and process of photography in a new cultural and environmental context.
Building Community and Adaptability
The experience offered more than just technical skills. The students were embraced by the Benilde community, learning the importance of collaboration and the power of interpersonal relationships. The challenges faced, from material scarcity to unfamiliar environments, taught the students how to adapt, problem-solve, and make the most of what’s available. This journey not only expanded their creative horizons but also highlighted the value of community and collaboration in artistic endeavors.
The success of this collaboration has paved the way for future exchanges. Benilde plans to visit OCAD University for the 2025 summer semester, continuing the rich dialogue and creative exchange between the institutions.
