The Fotokids project was initiated in 1991, when ex-Reuters photojournalist Nancy McGirr gave cameras to eight children living with their families among thousands of others in Guatemala City's huge, municipal garbage dump. The resulting works documented their living conditions, work situations, and the random violence and drug abuse they encountered every day. But the work also revealed a community living with dignity and hope despite its abject poverty. Over the years, the project has grown to include children from other economically destitute areas of Guatemala City and the interior of the country, the idea being that making pictures promotes self-confidence, assertiveness and creativity while encouraging these children to reach for their dreams. See the latest batch of images in the Guatemalan Fotokids Exhibit at Studio@620. An opening reception takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. Sat., Nov. 4; the images are on display through Nov. 18, noon-4 p.m. Tues.-Sat., 620 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg, free admission, 727-895-6620, www.thestudioat620.com.
This article appears in Nov 1-7, 2006.