The photo series titled Classroom Portraits by Julian Germain, a photographer based in Britain, focuses on school systems from around the world. By providing people with an unprecedented glimpse into these different classrooms, he allows them to reflect on the similarities and differences between each one while also contrasting the images to their own experiences. Aside from the commonality of the subject, the group poses are eerily similar. Each face is visible and there is hardly a smile to be found in any photo.
Currently on display in The Future is Ours exhibit at the Netherlands Fotomuseum, Classroom Portraits by Julian Germain ranges from the Netherlands to Yemen and Japan. The series was started in 2004 and continued until 2012.
Cross-Cultural School Photography
The Classroom Portraits by Julian Germain Focuses on Education
Trend Themes
1. Cross-cultural Photography - Documenting the differences and commonalities in cultures through photography can be a unique way to showcase diversity and empathy.
2. Global Education - Highlighting education systems globally can allow us to learn from what others are doing and identify ways to improve schools and classrooms.
3. Humanizing Classrooms - Reinforcing the importance of education, and highlighting the impact of educators and students can help us appreciate the value of learning.
Industry Implications
1. Education - This trend has huge potential for the education sector by creating an awareness of existing cultural differences, and ways to answer them.
2. Photography & Design - There is significant potential for the creative industry to translate and interpret messages about human diversity as shared through various cultural practices.
3. Travel & Tourism - This trend could inspire travel and engaged tourism centered around visiting educational institutions around the world.