Svatopluk Klesnil

12.9 Students’ Photography on the Formation of Personal and Social Identity (Art Project)

Svatopluk Klesnil – Department of Art Education, Faculty of Education, Palacký University Olomouc, Czech Republic

Abstract:

Over the past two decades, digital photography has become one of the most prevalent platforms for visual communication. Its accessibility and affordability have made it an ideal medium for young people to explore questions of personal and social identity. In their photographic work, students frequently address themes that reflect their lived experiences and current life situations – such as the search for meaning, interpersonal relationships, sexuality, body image, and attitudes toward societal issues, among others. This paper presents selected photographic works by students from the Department of Art Education at the Faculty of Education, Palacký University Olomouc, as a case study of how photography can serve as a means of self-exploration and social engagement among emerging adults.