Copy writing and editing an award-winning photography exhibition
‘Thought you might want to know, we’ve won an award.’
Erm, YES! When one of my (favourite) business clients wins an award, I want to know. I love to learn about my clients’ wins!
This wasn’t just any award, either.
The Project
When the opportunity came up to do some copywriting for a photography exhibition, my excitement was palpable.
Especially when I saw the topic.
The Power of Stories photography exhibition shares the stories of Black people from or living in Suffolk.
I love a good story. The main reason, in my mind, to meet new people is to ask what they do and why. To get a glimpse into who they are and learn other perspectives.
The idea of being allowed to work on the stories of people whose backgrounds and experiences are different from mine is always exciting. But I was aware that I might not be the best person for the role.
I’m not Black. And I made that very clear when I applied for the job.
Someone else had already done the interviews for this project and I was given the transcript or notes to write the stories out of it. I took their interview with the photography subject, or the notes that had been made about their life, and I wrote a short piece about them and their story.
Using their own words was vital to get across not only their voice, but also their true meaning. And using their own words is often where the power of their story lies.
I can’t express enough how interesting their stories were. Some were motivating and empowering, some were downright fascinating, and some were simply powerful. I enjoyed learning about each and every person.
Being part of an award-winning project
My part in this exhibition was very small, but my client is lovely and the subject matter was fascinating.
I’m so incredibly proud that I was allowed to be involved in this project, and so incredibly proud of the organisers for winning the Temporary or Touring Exhibition of the Year 2022 at the Museums and Heritage Awards.
Especially as they beat the V&A and Blenheim Palace and Blenheim Art Foundation (two incredibly big names), AND the Natural History Museum (which has a special place in my heart).
It hasn’t gone unnoticed by me that I left the South East over fourteen years ago, yet some of my favourite clients are based there. I can run all I like, but home will keep calling me.