smile-ing boys

 

https://www.theguardian.com/world/gallery/2020/mar/18/portraits-black-teenagers-south-london-mental-health?fbclid=IwAR2dneciFLLz7d5-l3hdm6GSpo81AcWvnXF0Qk7cKC4LniMRGC1piWNePWg

 

https://www.theguardian.com/global/2020/mar/18/photographs-black-teenage-boys-prejudice-stereotypes

Kay Rufai is a photographer who has created an exhibition in London called “The Smile-ing boys project”. The exhibition shows 13 young black boys smiling., captured in moments of happiness and relaxation.

Kay developed workshops with the boys around ‘happiness’, exploring feelings such as belonging, security and sense of purpose. The boys were asked to take photos of their lives and then discussed them as a group. Kay said he wanted to challenge stereotypes and for the boys to see themselves amplified in a positive light.

Note: The second article listed above gives valuable insight into the aims of this inspirational project which is about reducing knife crime and breaking down stereotypes of young black men. Writing this assembly for young children I have simplified the message because I want the focus to be simply positive images of young black boys. However older KS2 / KS3 children should explore the aims of the project further.

-        What do you notice about the children in the photos?

-        What similarities do you have with the children?

-        What differences do you have with the children?

-        Do you think you might have things in common? Give examples?

-        What do you notice about their facial expressions?

-        Why do you think they look so happy?

-        Why do you think at this time, that this collection of photos is important?

-        Which child do you think looks the happiest?

-        Which child do you think looks most relaxed?

-        What different words can you come up with to describe the feelings shown in the photos?

-        How do you think these children feel to be part of this collection of photos?

     - why is this about no outsiders?  What can we learn from these children?