"The Necessity Of Seeing" - 2025
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Photography, for me, is a celebration of light and an exploration of darkness. I arrived in these lands, camera in hand, ready to capture the memories of four cities—Bradford, Belfast, Cardiff, and Glasgow. These cities, with their rich histories and distinct cultures, became my canvas. Every street, building, and person I encountered contributed to the foundation of my creative process. I began the journey by asking questions through my work—questions that invite dialogue and reflection on the complexities of human experience.
Each city revealed stories of a nation negotiating between the weight of its past and the challenges of its present. These cities, layered with history and memory, reflected my own journey of self-exploration, where personal history meets societal truths. The more I searched, the more I realized that beneath the surface of our differences, there are universal experiences that connect us all.
Through my surrealist lens, I have engaged in several projects that have captured the multitude of perspectives that define us. In this body of work, I present a variety of narratives that create space for others to see beyond the surface. I invite viewers to question their own perceptions and engage with the profound truths that often go unnoticed. My art has always been a conversation between myself and the world—an ever-evolving dialogue about purpose, humanity, and the necessity of seeing. It is not about showcasing the obvious but about revealing the hidden layers of reality—the overlooked stories, the forgotten histories, and the quiet moments that shape who we are.
As I traveled by road through these cities, witnessing the changing landscapes and engaging with the people along the way, I saw how place and identity intersect in ways that are both subtle and profound. Every mile traveled, every conversation held, added another layer to the story. What stood out most, however, were the portraits I captured of each city’s “unsung heroes”—individuals quietly working in the background with a deep sense of purpose, striving for change not for personal glory but for the betterment of their communities. Their presence reminded me that progress is often driven by those who act without the need for recognition.
These people of Britain showed me that to evolve as a society, it is our responsibility to continue illuminating the shadows of our collective past and bring buried stories to light. Their quiet determination, resilience, and strength left a lasting impression on me. This collection is dedicated to them, and it serves as an invitation for viewers to question, seek understanding, and engage with deeper complexities. My intention with this work is to reflect what is visible while also revealing the invisible forces that shape our world. Every frame reflects the whispers of quiet truths that linger beneath the surface, waiting to be seen.
This collection, “The Necessity of Seeing”, was commissioned by Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture and Impressions Gallery, in partnership with Belfast Exposed, Ffotogallery in Cardiff, and Street Level Photoworks in Glasgow.