Sustaining a gunshot wound to the head whilst serving as an infantry solider in the British Army. During 1994, my life change within an instant. Waking from a medically induced coma, bedbound and unable to fend for myself. The prospect of a life dominated by disability suddenly becoming a stark reality. Restricted by poor mobility, visual impairment, and cognitive skills I found myself at the beginning of a life far different to that I had visualized, where medical treatment and extended rehabilitation would shape my future. Which over time led to the emergence of an altered character, with an inner determination to succeed like no other. Able to face challenges head on and learn how to compromise and adapt to challenging situations, has enabled me to achieve my ultimate goal.
At ease is an extended photography project which show-cases my unique connection with nature. Formed from childhood though adulthood to the present day a sense of understanding for the natural world and its similarities to humanity has developed. Which only now, over twenty- five years after injury has enabled me to fully comprehend the connection I have with nature. Today I can often be seen spending prolonged periods walking with my family passing through the countryside, drawn forward by instinct towards an invisible entity. A place where I find myself at ease within natures seclusion.
Photography progressing from a childhood hobby, today plays an important role in my rehabilitation providing incentive and reason.
Having achieved the unthinkable and broken away from the stereotyped perspective of disability, I hope to provide incentive to others who find themselves in a similar position and create an understanding that disability shouldn’t just be taken at face value.
Influenced over the past decade by the black and white imagery produced by photographers such as Ansel Adams, Clyde Butcher, Michael Kenna, and Paul Saunders. I have found that monotone as a tool in unison with my visual impairment provides me with a clearer perspective of the landscape, with light and dark shades showing not only the landscape undulates, but the abundance of features found there.
Using this to my strengths I have developed a high contrast photographic style which provides the viewer not only with an insight into how I view the landscape, but my emotions, and state of mind as I progresses on a personal journey towards a destination where I feel at ease within natures embrace.
Nature's Embrace 