Our Work
The work we do at The Big Camera is a collaboration between Donna Moore, Anna Lawrence, and John Allen. This ongoing project features a modified enclosed cargo trailer that functions as an extra large format camera. We also have a portable darkroom and community outreach vehicle for A1LabArts. The Big Camera was made possible through the Ann and Steve Bailey Opportunity Grant. We are also operation with generous support from the Knoxville art community.
Experience
The group has taught classes or demonstrated photography in places such as the Arts and Culture Alliance, Ijams Nature Center, Park(ing) Day and Open Streets, Boys and Girls Clubs, Knox County Schools, Roane State and Pellissippi State.
The Big Camera is intended to share the magic of photography though hands-on exploration. We seek to make photography come alive in a new way for many who encounter it. The Big Camera’s form is a throwback to historical ways of working in photography, which often required on site processing in vehicles such as wagons. There is no better way to understand a subject than by becoming fully immersed in it. In our case, that means literally entering a life sized camera!
Meet the crew
We’re educators, friends, enthusiasts, and professionals with decades of film and darkroom experience! We’ve been dreaming and collaborating together for nearly a decade.
Donna Moore is a retired art teacher, spending many years of her career beloved by kids at the Thackston School. She continues to mentor and partner with artists across the United States to grow her own body of work.
Anna Lawrence is a darkroom-educated photographer and graphic designer that moved into communications and marketing for her career. She has never lost her original love of making art as an outlet for creativity. Finally, she loves using The Big Camera to build community.
John Allen has an extensive background in fine arts and drawing. He has taught art courses at many local colleges. Additionally, he pursues alternative work in photography, marbling, and illustration in his free time. He is an exhibiting artist throughout the SouthEast and enjoys teaching and inspiring others.
Donna Moore, Anna Lawrence, and John Allen
Original Polaroid by Lance King