Biography

Born in Wales in 1952, I became interested in film and photography at a young age. As a child I lived in a large house whose dramatic landscaped grounds were where I created my own imaginary world and where I made my first images and films. It was where I built a small puppet theatre. I was initially inspired by the documentary work of Bill Brandt, Ian Berry and David Hurn. It was after seeing for the first time the work of Cartier Bresson that I decided that I was going to be a photographer.

Statement

The Coast series depicts a landscape that implies a powerful and mysterious presence- a landscape that suggest hidden narratives and events, a territory where something has happened or is about to happen. The images are positive. The work is composed with references to contrasts; photographs present spaces of symbolic and historical importance. The landscape that has traditionally been portrayed as being unified and harmonious is instead portrayed as confused to express conflict between expectation and reality. My work combines reportage and fine art disciplines. Photographs of real situations are constructed with classical representational composition. My images are tinged with nostalgia and childhood thoughts and dreams, influenced by the magic and mysticism of Welsh Mythology.

Experience

Worked as a freelance film camera operator for the BBC on documentaries and current affair programs.
Camerawork on Karl Francis’ film “Above Us The Earth”
My film “Tommy Gravedigger” shown on BBC2 and Grenoble Film festival.
Early photographs exhibited at Photographer’s Gallery and portfolio in Peter Turner’s Creative Camera.
Formed a News agency in partnership with television journalist Melanie Doel. Worked as a photojournalist. Supplied News items, photographs, radio and television features to the media.
Accredited as a BBC and ITV journalist.
Built a low energy house.
Researched book “Is it still raining in Aberfan” for Logaston press.
Script treatment for TV drama “A Doctor’s Occupation” optioned.
Photographs published in The Sunday Times, Telegraph and many newspapers, magazines and books throughout the world.
Began fine art photography 2006
Completing a novel “The Garlic Factory”
Awarded two Grant for the Arts Awards, Arts Council England, in past year.
Won bursary place for Rhubarb-Rhubarb Festival Birmingham 2007

Education

BA Photographic Arts University of Westminster, London 1971-74