The annual #YourTurn photo collaboration on Feb. 26 brought together 50 middle and upper school students at an in-person event to create self-portraits and explore “other worlds” using mirrors, found imagery, and reflective surfaces. The event featured renowned artists Paul Mpagi Sepuya and Awol Erizku, alongside Aperture Foundation photo educator Alice Proujansky.
“When Paul was talking to us, I could tell how passionate he is about what he does,” said Amelie Bennett ’28. “That passion inspired me—I want my art to be as authentic as possible and really speak to someone”.
Developed eight years ago by Photography Teacher Joe Medina, #YourTurn promotes collaborative photography projects that delve into self-expression and personal narratives.
“The inspiration behind #YourTurn was to create a platform that brings educators together with students from Harvard-Westlake, the community of Los Angeles, and beyond, such as other schools around the world, fostering collaboration on ideas and projects,” Medina said. It’s designed as a resource to share curriculum with other educators, provide access to the artists we bring in, and share materials with other school communities.”
This year’s theme, “Through the Looking Glass,” encouraged students to create self-portraits using mirrors and reflective surfaces.
“I think it’s always fun collaborating on photography with upper school students and guest artists,” Bennett said. “There’s just so much to learn from artists who have more experience than you, and I love to strengthen my personal skills through these opportunities.”
The collaboration not only provides a platform for artistic expression but also strengthens the sense of community among students and educators.
“When our stories are seen and heard, we discover our common bonds,” Medina said.
