Reclaiming the Chicano/a/x Frame (Jul 19-Aug 16)

Dates: July 19 - August 16, 2025

Meetings: Saturday, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM CST (5 sessions)

Location: Houston Center for Photography

Cost: $295 (HCP members can receive a 10% discount)

Instructor: Gabi Magaly

Skill Level: Open to All Levels

Chicano photographers have long depicted the struggles, triumphs, and everyday moments of vibrant American-Mexican communities. As a result, these photographers shaped cultural identity, reclaimed narratives, and preserved history in ways that words alone cannot. How do we photograph our communities, our families, or even ourselves? This course introduces students to the powerful tradition of Chicano/a/x photography—image-making centered around Mexican American identity that challenges stereotypes and celebrates culture, history, and everyday life. Through weekly meetings including lectures, hands-on assignments, fieldwork, and group critiques, students will expand their creative practice while developing an awareness of photography’s role in shaping personal and cultural narratives. No prior experience is required—just curiosity, a camera (iPhone/Android phone, DSLR or Mirrorless camera) and a willingness to explore identity through image-making.

Objectives:

• Understand basic camera functions and composition guidelines

• Learn about key Chicano/a/x photographers and their contributions to visual culture

• Explore themes of identity, place, and resistance through photographic practice

• Create a small body of work that reflects personal or cultural narratives

• Participate in constructive group critiques and articulate ideas about photography

• Gain confidence using photography as a storytelling and documentary tool

• Build foundational skills for future photographic exploration

Prerequisites: None

Course Prep: 

Please bring your camera (iPhone/Android phone, DSLR or Mirrorless camera) a sketchbook, and 2–3 personal photos you’ve taken that you feel connected to—no matter the quality.