Asylum
My series Asylum allowed me to seek refuge in these current challenging times of Covid 19. Each image involved careful planning, attention to detail and many days – even weeks to produce. Historically, the main bodies of my work are documentary where ethically little post processing is permitted. Asylum however, allowed me to venture to the other end of the photographic spectrum where I could go crazy with compositing, cloning and blending for example. There were no limits on what I could or could not do except for my imagination.
I wanted to create a series that challenged traditional photography where each image could be confused as a painting or drawing rather than a photograph. I also wanted to create a series that played abstractly on known expressions or adages.
Through the use of textures, blending modes and other Photoshop tools, I could create a landscape story that was somewhat different to the norm. Many of the images were taken from around the world during my visits to many countries. Some images sat on my hard drives for several years dormant and then finally given life for this series.
Some images consist of more than twenty different photographs and it was never unusual to spend many an hour working with images that would never see the light of day. They just didn’t work despite my initial optimism and tenacity. I had a vision of the final image but getting there was not always that easy.
This series really helped me to “smell the roses”. I became very interested in my surroundings always seeking out what I termed “assets” – images I could include in each picture such as a row of letterboxes, a tree or an interesting old house. Could I use that flower on my tree or how would that picture benefit from the butterfly in my garden? I think there’s something really healthy about this train of thought. If I am unable to locate the images I need, I construct them. For example, in the image “Multi-tasking” I created scale models of kites in flight.
In addition to seeking out “assets” I became more aware of my surroundings further in terms of textures such as plaster or tree trunks. Textures are an integral part of each image as they really help in providing a painterly effect.
I always ensured that this series remained timeless. As old buildings, machinery and surroundings where used, it was difficult for the viewer to pinpoint a year as each one is timeless. In addition to this, I rarely included a person as I wanted the environment to be the centre of attention.
I must admit that I had a lot of fun creating this series and whilst at times I encountered difficulties and barriers, it’s imperative to never lose sight of what’s important – having fun whilst creating your art – your vision. It should always be about having a great time. The day I become frustrated or angry with photography is the day I should think about giving it away.
