The photographs featured on this page are the work of students participating in the Promising Artist in Recovery program. PAIR started as an art program for youth in the juvenile justice system in Snohomish County, but has recently expanded its reach to youth outside of the court as well, said Henri Wilson, director of the PAIR program. Wilson has worked for more than 20 years with at-risk youth teaching art and making partnerships between her students and the community. “It’s healthy for the kids when they see their community embrace them,” Wilson said.
The PAIR program offers several different types of art classes to students, from poetry writing to calligraphy. The photography class involves Annie and Mark Mulligan, both Herald photographers, sending the students out with 35mm film and cameras to document the people and things important to them. Students often balance PAIR classes with drug court requirements such as social meetings and drug tests, as well as regular teenager stuff like school, family and friends. They are committed to improving themselves and their relationships with significant people in their lives, which is often reflected in their pictures. They also enjoy taking pictures of their hobbies, nature and animals.
The program would not be possible without the generous help of Kodak, Ken’s Camera in Everett and the Everett Public Library, with funding provided by the Blanche Miller Trust and the Howarth Trust.
Students will be participating in an exhibition of their photographs and poetry on June 16, at the Everett Public Library from 4-6 p.m. with a presentation at 5 p.m.
See all the photos and read quotes from PAIR students.
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