Hi Joel – Please tell us a bit about your work and your influences
“My photographic practice is primarily based around documenting the nuances of everyday life and the relationship with our surroundings. Working within the framework of fine art photography I seek to explore and elevate the marginal and seemingly banal environments I encounter. My graduate project ‘Cut Of The Land’ surveys the landscapes surrounding the canals of North London between the rural suburbs of Southall, and the urban sprawl around Limehouse basin.
“The canals cut through the land, shaping the surrounding environment both in the urban and rural landscape. They act as a green corridor, a boundary line between different boroughs, and even a socio-economic divide. Cut Of The Land explores these different facets of the canals to present a unique perspective on often overlooked areas of North London. Working in the documentary style key influences on my practice include Mark Power, Simon Roberts, Robin Friend, and the New Topographics Movement documenting the man-altered landscape, as well as the painter Edward Hopper.”
How have you found your course and time at Brighton?
“The photographic course in Brighton has been great; there’s an incredible group of tutors, technicians, and support staff offering help and guidance. It’s been a fantastic opportunity to develop my practice in an exciting environment surrounded by a talented group of likeminded peers. Unfortunately, my time in the city itself was cut short. However as limited as it was, it was still a great experience in a fun and lively city surrounded by culture and artistic influences.”
How did you choose your course – why did you choose to study Photography?
“I have always had an interest in the visual arts, but photography was the medium that I felt I was able to express myself with the most. In particular I was interested in how photography was able to render the world around me, capturing both intimate split-second events, and detached tableaus of everyday life. The positive reputation of the course meant had my heart set on Brighton relatively early on, peaking at the facilities and the work of students before my interview only reinforced my desire to study in Brighton.”
What are your plans after graduation?
“In the short term I intend to explore professional opportunities in my local community, as well as looking into getting my work displayed. Beyond this I am also looking into building on ‘Cut Of The Land’ as a long-term project. Having documented the Paddington Arm of the Grand Union and the Regent’s Canal I am considering expanding to explore some of North London’s other waterways.”
Find out about studying Photography at Brighton.
