This evening saw the grand opening of this year’s photography exhibition, hosted by the Borsdane Wood & Rayner Park Friends Group, and it was opened by the Mayor of Wigan, Councillor Kevin Anderson.
This year’s Photography Exhibition is titled ‘Borsdane Woods and Beyond’ to celebrate Wigan’s green spaces, and the it features captivating photos by myself and other local photographers. It’s heartwarming to see local communities come together to appreciate the beauty of nature through art.
Blending Digital and Analogue
1. Digital Photographs
My camera is always with me during my woodland adventures. For this exhibition I have curated a number of digital photographs from Borsdane Woods and other green spaces around Wigan, having captured moments that resonate with me, including the interplay of light through leaves, and the fleeting expressions of wildlife. These digital images are vibrant, crisp, and full of life.
2. Analogue Photographs (Shot on Medium Format)
I don’t limit myself to digital technology. I don’t just embrace analogue photography using a medium format film camera, I prefer it. There’s something magical about loading film, composing a shot, and waiting for the perfect moment. The resulting images have a timeless quality—the grain, imperfections, and all. They evoke nostalgia and connect us to the past, reminding us of the beauty in imperfection. As last year’s exhibition for me consisted of photos shot exclusively on film, there’s less of a feature this time.
Crafting the Photo Book
Noble Binding Pattern Variation
Beyond the lens, I’m a hands-on creator, and I meticulously designed and crafted a 115-page photo book, binding it by hand. Inspired by Japanese stab binding, I used a variation of the Noble binding pattern. Each page is a labour of love, inviting readers to immerse themselves in my visual journey, and it is broken down into the four seasons to give a sense of time passing as you pass through various outdoor spaces. It’s not just a book; it’s a tactile experience—a piece of art that bridges the gap between the digital and the tangible. It’s the largest photobook I have ever made by far and to be honest I’m incredibly proud of it. Whilst it looks nice and neat now, I kinda hope it’s a bit grubby in a couple of weeks, as that will have been seen and handled as intended.
As visitors explore the exhibition then hopefully they can glimpse my world and those of the other contributors. Whether captured digitally or etched onto film, beauty lies in the details. I invite everyone to discover Borsdane Woods and beyond through our lenses.
About the Borsdane Wood & Rayner Park Friends Group
The Borsdane Wood & Rayner Park Friends Group is a local community of volunteers and supporters dedicated to maintaining and managing the Borsdane Wood Local Nature Reserve. This beautiful woodland, thought to date back to the 17th century, boasts ancient trees and diverse wildlife. From deer to woodpeckers, it’s a haven for nature enthusiasts. The group organizes nature walks led by experts and hosts community events open to all. Their commitment ensures that Borsdane Wood remains a cherished green space in Wigan Borough.
Exhibition Details
Event: Borsdane Woods and Beyond: A Photography Exhibition
Date: 15 May to 2nd June 2024
Location: St John’s Methodist Church, Hindley, Wigan
Many thanks, and looking forward to seeing you there!
Olly
