Residency Artist - Visual Arts

Gary Harwood

1567 Meloy Rd.
Kent, OH  44240
Phone: (330) 554-1163
Email: gharwood@kent.edu
Website: www.growingseason.net

I am a photographer, social documentarian and visual storyteller with an interest in understanding how images communicate, inspire and contribute to the storytelling experience. It is my belief that storytelling is a foundational communication skill and for me, this is especially true when combined with photography. I believe visual storytelling is a universal language that should be introduced to students of all ages. This could be a classroom experience or a project-based community experience.

My current work has been focused on the connection between the actions of the storyteller and the impact of the story on the viewing public. For me, it begins with access and a deep and meaningful connection with the subjects. From this intimate perspective, more compelling stories are created. This can be accomplished if a photographer develops his or her social, creative, artistic and technical skills and uses them in combination to create a compelling visual result.

As a teacher, I am inspired by the work of Sir Ken Robinson and his concept of developing an agricultural versus industrial learning experience in the classroom. The concept of individual growth within a group is central to my teaching approach. I want students to have their own unique storytelling experience through photography and develop their own approach and vision for their work. I also want them to recognize their distinct talents and abilities in the process. It is my goal to provide an environment for self-discovery, passion and an appreciation for photography as a language.

Ultimately, I have similar goals as a teacher and photographer; to reach that deeper place where connection and understanding leads to the most compelling visual experience whether in the field or in the classroom.

I have worked as a photographer for over 28 years and have taught photography at Kent State for over 20 years. I am the co-author (with David Hassler) of Growing Season: The Life of a Migrant Community. The book won the Carter G. Woodson Honor Award from the National Council for the Social Studies, the Ohioana Book Award from the Ohioana library Association and was selected by the Stark County's Mayor's Literacy Program for their annual One Book One Community reading program. The project was awarded a 2005 Artist and Communities Grant from the Ohio Arts Council and was awarded the James R. Gordon Ohio Understanding Award from the Ohio News Photographers Association. I've also received an Individual Artist Grant for photography from the Ohio Arts Council, won four national Circle of Excellence awards from The Council for the Advancement and Support of Education. My work has also appeared in the Communication Arts and Graphis Photo Annual publications.