Merton’s most industrious teenagers were special guests at the opening of the Merton Young Faces Photographic Exhibition at Wimbledon’s legendary All England Lawn Tennis Club (AELTC) writes Kuba Shand-Baptiste.
The event, which took place on Monday, September 14, celebrated 50 students for their notable efforts in sports, the arts and community work through a showcase of vivacious portraits taken by photographer Nick Gregan.
Joshua Idusohan, 17, with his portrait.
Each Young Face featured in the exhibition was nominated by their school or community group and will have their portraits donated to them on behalf of the AELTC once the exhibition ends.
Organised by the AELTC’s charity, the Wimbledon Foundation and Wimbledon BookFest, the event coincided with the London borough of Merton’s 50th anniversary and gave those in attendance primary access to the pieces.
From left, Wimbledon Foundation chairman Ian Hewitt, Jennifer Cox, the mayor of Merton Councillor David Chung, Wimbledon BookFest director Fiona Razvi, Wimbledon Foundation manager Helen Parker and Nick Gregan, photographer of the portraits.
Fiona Razvi, Wimbledon BookFest director said: "It was a wonderful night because none of the Young Faces had seen their portraits. They were really moved by it".
Guest were also given the privilege of hearing inspirational stories behind the triumphs of the Young Faces, including that of Andrew Garrio, 16, who now attends the prestigious music school, Purcell School after practising for years on hand-drawn keyboards.
The exhibition represented children from various backgrounds and abilities and features pupils from Perseid School, which specialises in teaching three to 19 year-olds with learning difficulties.
Hailing the diversity of the exhibition, Ms Razvi said: "It was lovely because it’s often said that special needs schools don’t have many opportunities to mix with mainstream schools".
Also among those in attendance was mayor of Merton, Councillor, David Chung, teachers of the teenagers, as well as their families.
The free exhibition runs until October 11 in the Wingfield Cafe at The All England Lawn Tennis Club from 10am to 5pm every day.
To see more of his pictures visit nickgregan.com
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