keep eastside silver print open

Hello, my name is Anthony Maddaloni, and I am organizing this fundraiser to support the operation of our local darkroom, East Side Silver Print here, in Austin, Texas. East Side Silver Prints started twelve years ago in 2012. I opened this darkroom to provide a space where individuals can learn and practice creating images with analog film and alternative darkroom processes at an affordable price. Unfortunately, recent economic hardships and unforeseen circumstances have made it increasingly difficult for East Side Silver Print to continue providing valuable services to the local community. I'm seeking your help to keep EastSide Silver Print's darkroom doors open to the community. This darkroom has brought together hobbyists, photographers, and artists, providing a valuable space for learning and creative exploration with analog film and alternative darkroom processes. With so few darkrooms left like this, it would be a significant cultural loss for our city to see one of the last darkrooms forced to turn off the lights for good.

Over the past twenty years, I have worked as a photography educator at different local universities, such as the University of Austin and Texas State. During this time, I have developed and grown as an educator and expert in film photography. My true passion lies in creating an educational and creative space where I can teach others about the value and importance of this medium, which at its core, is an art form and a technical skill. Without this darkroom, I won’t be able to offer this passion of mine to others in this capacity. I want to educate others and redefine the lessons we can learn from these alternative practices.

Throughout the years, the darkroom has seen numerous individuals, artists, photographers, and art connoisseurs develop film and print photographs, as well as hosting local photography exhibitions, workshops and classes. This darkroom has been used by a wide variety of people from teenagers, hobbyists, professionals and senior citizens. EastSide Silver Print has served as an inclusive space to create, learn and take refuge away from everyday noise and distraction from everyday life.

Lately, managing the darkroom has been challenging and has taken up a significant amount of my time and resources, resulting in both emotional and financial strain. The building's infrastructure, consisting of the plumbing, electrical, and ventilation systems, requires a substantial investment of resources and money to maintain, repair, and improve over time. There has also been difficulty in obtaining the necessary hard-to-find equipment for a fully functional darkroom, like enlargers, lenses, washers etc, as well as other economic factors that have affected our operations. I hope you understand my situation and bear with me during this challenging period. As the lease for the darkroom is up for renewal in April, I am reaching out for support to ensure that the darkroom remains open and accessible to everyone.

Any contribution you can make would be greatly appreciated and will help us continue to provide a space where people can learn and create beautiful photographs using traditional and alternative methods. Your donation would help fund our operations with the maintenance of the building and additionally, the purchasing of new enlargers and other equipment. At EastSide Silver Print, we are committed to fostering inclusivity and accessibility for individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds who are pursuing the art of darkroom practices. Your donation towards keeping East Side Silver Prints operational would be greatly appreciated, and I would be incredibly humbled and grateful for any support you can offer. Thank you for considering donating to our cause!