I was born in Newcastle Upon Tyne in 1955. In the mid-70s, having not done at all well at school, I decided to take time out and go hitch-hiking, I got as far as Afghanistan. Up until that point, I had no real interest in taking photographs, but that journey opened my eyes to the possibilities. I returned home, worked for a year, borrowed an old Ilford camera from my Grandfather and went off again. This time I went overland through Europe, Turkey, Iran and Afghanistan, Pakistan and on to India and, finally, Nepal.
On my return from Nepal, I went back to education in order to qualify for a place to study Fine Art in Sheffield and graduated in 1981. I worked professionally as a freelance photographer for BBC Television whilst continuing my own photographic projects. Originally I was working with film and print in the darkroom, but as the quality of digital has improved, I now predominantly use it. Film and print are now reserved for those projects where it really is the best option.
I had the idea to work on a series of Flower Portraits well before the Lockdowns, but during the time when we were all cloistered indoors because of the Pandemic, they provided the perfect subject, and I found a real sense of purpose in creating them.
What inspires you?
Describe your creative process.
What are 3 words that best describe your work?
Who are some artists that have influenced your work?
What is the most important tool when creating your work?
What is the best piece of advice you have been given?
Where do you go for inspiration?
