Unseen City
Wayne Chin’s journey from isolation to creative expression highlights the transformative power of photography. Written by Paul Ryan, CEO of MYWORLD Creative Projects, this article explores the MYLONDON initiative, a remarkable project empowering individuals affected by homelessness to share their stories through the lens and reconnect with their communities.
Words Paul Ryan. Photography MYLONDON“Feelings coming from the depths of despair and isolation led me to photography.”
Wayne Chin, MYLONDON participant
By Wayne Chin and was in the 2024 calendar. Taken on a Fujifilm QuickSnap film camera
Wayne Chin’s journey to photography began in his darkest moments. Over time, he found solace and expression through the MYLONDON project and its mentoring group for people affected by homelessness. His story, like many others, demonstrates that this initiative goes far beyond creating exceptional photos, it transforms lives.
This year, the MYLONDON project continued its mission of empowering individuals through art. In July, 100 Fujifilm one-time use 35mm film cameras were handed out with a simple concept: participants had one week to capture their vision of London. The theme was intentionally broad, encouraging personal and diverse interpretations of the city.
From the 100 cameras distributed, 90 were returned, though 10 of them had no photos taken—an occurrence that reflects the growing unfamiliarity with film photography in today’s digital age. Ultimately, 80 cameras were developed, and each participant contributed three photos to an exhibition.
A panel of judges selected 25 standout images, which were then voted on by the public to determine the final selection for the MYLONDON calendar.
“Every calendar sold, not only funds Café Art, but provides a lifeline for participants, empowering them to connect with their community and regain a sense of purpose.”
The project’s impact extends beyond the calendar. The photography mentoring group, run by volunteers from the London Region of the Royal Photographic Society, meets biweekly to teach digital photography. With generous donations and support from Fujifilm, participants now have access to high-quality equipment like XT-30 cameras.
Wayne Chin, whose talent was highlighted in the documentary Unseen City by filmmaker Tom Sweetland, is a prime example of how MYLONDON participants grow artistically and personally. This documentary will be featured at the International Journal of Homelessness Conference in Santiago, Chile, in January 2025, where Café Art hopes to inspire other homelessness-sector charities worldwide.
By Shenan Chandler. Taken on Fujifilm T2 digital camera. It’s called Chilling in Brixton and was in the 2022 calendar
By Goska Calik and was also taken on a Fujifilm T2 digital camera - also in the 2022 calendar.
By Barry Callaghan. It’s called Camden Market Alley. It’s in the current MYLONDON 2025 calendar.
ByWayne Chin. Taken on a Fujifilm X1 camera as part of the photography mentoring group (not in calendar)
“Over the years, we’ve helped 10 other cities implement their versions of MYLONDON,” including projects like MEIN MÜNCHEN in Germany and MYMUMBAI in India. In 2022, Café Art established the MYWORLD charity to expand this mission even further.
Despite its global reach, the focus remains on London and the UK. “While we can’t solve homelessness through photography, we can make a difference to people’s lives and connect them with the wider community while we do it.”
The 2024 MYLONDON calendar is not just a collection of stunning images; it’s a testament to resilience, creativity, and hope.
“Visit our shop or stop by Spitalfields Market to get your copy and support this life-changing initiative.”
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