SYDNEY.- Senior citizens from across Sydney are putting their photographic talents to the test in a special exhibition at Customs House near Circular Quay. On view from 17 to 31 August 2011, the Snap & Click touring showcase is the result of a dedicated digital photography course for people aged 55 years and over which was held during Seniors Week 2011. Organised by the Museum of Contemporary Art, The Aviiid Foundation and the Australian Centre for Photography (ACP), the ‘Snap and Click’ workshops were designed for seniors with little or no prior knowledge of photography. By the course’s completion, each participant had a strong grasp of their digital cameras, its basic functions and the key to creating professional looking images with every click.

Demonstrating it’s never too late to learn or even teach the teachers a thing or two, seniors from Sydney’s East, North Shore and the Inner West took part in the three-week workshops in March 2011. The workshops began with a guided visit to the MCA during this year’s blockbuster Annie Leibovitz exhibition introducing participants to concepts and themes in contemporary art. This was followed by one-on-one tuition in digital photography conducted by art professionals from the MCA and ACP. Tutors then led students through the technical features of a digital SLR camera before participants put their new skills into practice by interacting with the local community in a field assignment around The Rocks. In the final week, participants were guided through the photo editing and printing process to produce their featured works.

The Customs House ‘Snap & Click’ exhibition is designed to showcase the students’ artworks for family, friends and the general public to enjoy.

According to Director of the Aviiid Foundation, Scott Marinchek, ‘The Aviiid Foundation is very happy to again help to put seniors in touch with art professionals and others to nourish and nurture creativity and artistic passion. This collection of photography is a visual celebration of the dynamic contribution Third-age Australians make to the our community.'

The ‘Snap & Click’ program exemplifies the energetic and ageless spirit that our nation can be proud of. It’s all about the reality of people contributing to and enjoying life regardless of age,’ said Mr Marinchek.

The Snap & click exhibition runs from 17 to 31 August 2011 at customs House at circular Quay.