New photography exhibition showcases photographs by homeless people

A new photography exhibition has opened showcasing the work of David Burnett, who collaborated with Big Issue vendors on the unique project.

Entitled the Eyes of the Street, the exhibition, which was organised by the International Network of Street Papers (INSP), features a mix of photographers taken by homeless vendors and professional photographers, reported the Drum magazine.

In some ways, because of its unique approach – i.e. handing out cameras to homeless people – a new element to street photography has been achieved.

It offers street photographers original ideas to test out for their photobooks because homeless people "know the streets" a lot more intimately and deliver a visual portrayal that is distinct.

Speaking to the magazine, Mr Burnett said that the exhibition was born out of an idea that aspired to give people who hadn't had much experience of photography the opportunity to see if it would "click with them".

He said: "We're trying to open people up to photography. Some folks get it quickly; some can spend days and days and they don't. Some people are just born with a bit of an artistic sensibility.

"But even if you're not, that's OK. The great thing about photography is you don't need to be licensed to do it; you can just pick up the camera and go."

The exhibition is currently on show at BBC Scotland and will move to the Mitchell Gallery, where it will run from July 23rd to August 31st.

The Big Issue is one of the UK’s leading social businesses, specialising in offering homeless and vulnerably housed people the opportunity to earn a legitimate income.