Our final session of 2022 once again underscored how an eclectic variety of themes
and topics can provide sources for ‘contemporary expression’ – indeed, from clouds to tobacco tins this time around! Sometimes and purely by chance, some of us explore similar or related subjects but for December, apart from two, which could be broadly classified as ‘street photography’ (though with different approaches), ‘diversity was the rule’.
We began with two ‘Outside Sources’. The first set continued the coincident theme of diversity when Tessa showed and commented upon work from a selection of photographers, each with a ‘contemporary perspective’. (We don’t have a link available right now but if we rediscover it, we’ll let you know.)
The second ‘OS’ was a very brief review of the work by Bea Nettles, a California-based experimental, expressionist photographer with a very personal viewpoint, particularly about ‘women’s concerns’, their personal stories, histories and viewpoints. Her unconventional approach is intensely personal, taking many photographers upon journeys beyond their comfort zone. Photography embraces wide spectrum of expression, and we seek to share as much as possible, opening up ideas and encouraging everyone to seek their own pathway. Here’s the link: Bea Nettles
Of course, the main part of our session featured work from our members – and what a talented group we have! Here’s a brief résumé: Geoff Hicks asked us to look up and appreciate and interpret the transient, ephemeral beauty of clouds whilst Bob Oakley introduced us to old tobacco tins, once used for the primary purpose by his father but now repurposed as storage containers for ‘things which could be useful’.
Aspects of the coast attracted Lucy Allum, Simon Brzeski and Richard Broomfield. Whilst Lucy explored the intimate landscapes of the beach and details, Simon’s expression concerned the interaction of wind, waves and the dimming of the day. Richard’s set featured close-up patterns of time-worn and wave-scoured sandstone rocks and the delicate abstract patterns fleetingly revealed at low tide.
People formed the connection for Charles Ashton, Richard Handley and Alex Isaacs, each with their own approach. Charles was out after dark prowling the rain-washed streets of London, Richard basked in balmy Brighton and Alex anonymised his subjects through intentional camera movement.
The City of Worcester provided the canvas for Derek Skinner, whilst Whitby provided the backdrop for Martin Addison’s narrative about how road-traffic cones are insidiously ‘taking over’.
As a self-confessed ‘petrolhead’, Mark Gameson introduced us to his passion for the design of classic cars and the details he enjoys. Tessa Mills’ set of semi-abstract images expressed her concern for the ‘uneasy balance’ tilting between nature and the built environment. In contrast, Clive Haynes, through his interpretation, sought to reveal how carved figures and funerary embellishments upon tombs and memorials offer a form communication through time.
All members work from our December session are in our Viewpoint e-book for this month. Click on the image below or this link: December and choose the December edition. Here too, you can also browse many back issues of ‘Viewpoint’
