flathorizon

After The Storm

2011-05-09T19:25:00.004+01:00

I have neglected this blog over the past year or so, with only adding things every now and again. Im going to make the effort to actually start posting once in a while

Saturday night

2011-01-24T17:25:00.001Z

..as is!

Work (if any) in progress

2010-11-15T23:34:00.002Z

I typed up a long, probably 1000 words on a post here last week about where I was with my photography, how I have struggled bla bla. Then I hit a key (dont know which one) and deleted it all. I was pissed off as I had sat for well over half an hour spurning it out. But looking back, I dont think it was relevant to put that process of thought out there for the world to read, if anyone reads this. I am at the stage now; still where I am still not photographing much, but thinking about what I am doing with my life. Music is starting to take the lead role in my thoughts ever since leaving university, in which it held pole position before my degree.

I still dont know what is going to happen to be honest. And that in a way scares me, but maybe it will be an adventure, actually its always an adventure. Maybe it will be a good one!

2010-11-15T23:32:00.001Z

I was going to write something deep and meaningful about how I feel at the moment and how inspired I am, but.... I cant be bothered

a thought

2010-11-02T04:21:00.002Z

does drifting along in life function as contempt?

Helios VIII

2010-10-11T12:34:00.003+01:00

Have a look HERE and see if your able to come to the North of Englands upcoming photographer's show. It will be good to see you there and it should be an interesting night of photography.

Andy

Breaking the Century

2010-05-14T17:19:00.002+01:00

Just realised that this is my 100th post on this blog, ironically it also marks the hosting of my first proper website.

Andrew Clarke Photography

Hope you like what you see, it contains all the main projects I have worked on this year, the Light the last flare which consisted of a book and an exhibition. My university Final Major and my cycle/photographic journey along the Antrim Coast on the edge of Northern Ireland.

Enjoy

Third View

2010-04-05T12:52:00.002+01:00

The only way to really grasp what this project is about is to visit the website, which to be honest doesn't totally do it justice.

Since photography came about, some 180 (arguable) years ago, photographers have photographed the landscape, for various reasons. The purpose of the original project at around the turn of the 20th century was a geological and geographic survey of the american west. In the 1970's it was photographed again in the same manner, and just a few years ago it was photographed a third time.

this book is essentially an archival document, showing change and development over a century through photography.

A truly worthwhile piece of work!

have a look HERE

STOP 43

2010-03-24T13:08:00.002Z

Basically its like going out and completing any professional job, no matter what it may be. Then giving your earnings to a stranger and allowing them to take all credit for it, then paying the government tax on what they have earned from you...

this cant be stood for...

READ MORE HERE!!!!!!!!!!

its visual artist rape!

The Last Flare Has been Lit

2010-03-02T12:10:00.003Z

Our initial exhibition was a success, with a good turn out and some really good critical feedback from many of the guests who came on the opening night. This stop motion video was running from the first nail was put into the wall until the last person left on the opening night. Enjoy.

VIDEO CREATED BY ANDREW ROBERT TYRRELL ESQ

"dont worry about a thing"

2010-03-01T14:03:00.005Z

Since its 1st of March, spring has begun and in reminiscence of last summer I thought a photo from one of my finer moments was appropriate.

image copyright Andrew Tyrrell 2010

2010-02-07T10:19:00.001Z

Pictures with a clear one-sided message don't interest me even if I agree with their message; they are mere propaganda.

Mitch Epstein 2007

LIGHT THE LAST FLARE

2010-02-02T20:07:00.003Z

Finally the exhibition is only a few weeks away and everything is getting a bit mental with scanning, printing and searching for frames. But!... everything although being crazy is coming together and were looking forward to the opening night, and the week long exhibition.

The details are -

Opens: Thursday, 18 February 2010 at 19:00
End Time: Thursday, 25 February 2010 at 16:00
Location: Bank Gallery (Above the Griffin), Carlisle. Which is just outside the train station

The flyer above is a printable, high resolution image which you are free to download.

Current Listening Vol. 5

2010-01-16T11:38:00.003Z

Rumbleseat, A band that sprung from the Gainsville, Florida band - Hot Water Music. The Band Rumbleseat consists of acoustic folk/rock tunes with rich melody's and deep punkrock roots.

The lyrical content is as fulfilling and compliments the well thought out simplicity of the guitar riffs.

Check it out HERE

Nostalgic touch

2010-01-13T19:20:00.004Z

I found this image on my hard drive from an end of 2nd degree year exhibition last year. My most proud body of work I have completed, I was so satisfied with the final images I was really hard struck to pick 3 for the wall. The way it always should be.

Inside of emptyness continued

2010-01-11T14:33:00.005Z

Another image from an on going side project, with a hint of Eggleston

image copyright Andrew Clarke 2010

Light the Last Bluuurrrrrrrrrb

2010-01-11T12:04:00.004Z

Image copyright Andrew Clarke 2009
Photograph taken on location at Steetley (and dont worry, there are no 7ft Geordies in the book)

If you liked the look of the Light the Last Flare constatina book then you might like to get your own copy in traditional perfect bound from Blurb.com at a reasonable price of £35

CHECK IF OUT IF YOU PLEASE

Flak photo ethos

2010-01-10T17:32:00.003Z

I have been visiting a website recently, called Flak Photo the ethos is to be creating new work on a daily basis regardless of whether or not it fits into a project on the whole.

Although at the moment at home in Ireland you could say my project here is Irish Winter, or the Big Winter. Anyway, this will change when I get back to England when I will be really knuckling down on various project, giving me more oppertunity to get this blog more active, and hopefully get people a bit more interested in reading what I am photographing.

image copyright Andrew Clarke 2010

EMERALD Isle turns WHITE

2010-01-05T15:55:00.003Z

images copyright Andrew Clarke 2010

Rafal Milach

2010-01-03T18:50:00.004Z

The first thing you notice by the sea is the concrete. Kilometers of grey blocks sometimes painted with blue and yellow, the national colors of Ukraine. You can feel the soviet past at once. It looks surreal and it doesn’t match the beautiful landscape that surrounds you. Industrial zones and the iron waste by the sea don’t remind harmonic idyll between nature and man. People have changed the landscape in a very brutal way here. But the sea fights back for its natural shape and territory. Local people seem to respect the power of the sea. Nevertheless at he same time they thoughtlessly devastate it. This wired symbiosis makes this piece of land fascinating. I went to the Ukrainian Black Sea coast to explore this mutual influence and relation between the man and sea. Ukraine is the country in transition and for the last few years has been looking for its new identity. In my opinion so has the Black Sea coast.
Rafal Milach

From the images I have seen HERE I feel that there is something very compelling about the chosen subject. A part of Europe that has been kept in the dark, here in the west there is not many of us who know a great deal about this far away place that is in reality so near.
The reason for it being on Blurb.com is because it was an entry for a Photobook competition, where it won first prize. I find these sorts of competitions which involve the Arts to be very problematic, does the winning artist have more creativity than someone who came in 99th place? does their work represent their methodology as accurately a they had originally set out to do? constant questions eh?

Anyway regardless of my ranting, I think looking at the bigger picture, there is no reason why this book shouldn't have won, the images look stunning, I only wish that I could see the whole book so I could experience the journey/narrative. But at £80-odd quid I don't think I will be purchasing it anytime soon, its a bit steep like!

Anyway, enjoy the work, its of excellent quality. You can see a lot more of this project and many others HERE on his website.

Get that down you!

2009-12-28T13:18:00.001Z

nice to hear

2009-12-27T01:06:00.001Z

The Independent reports that…

“…strongly worded warning was circulated by the Association of Chief Police Officers (ACPO) last night. In an email sent to the chief constables of England and Wales’s 43 police forces, officers were advised that [...] “Officers and community support officers are reminded that we should not be stopping and searching people for taking photos. Unnecessarily restricting photography, whether from the casual tourist or professional, is unacceptable.”

Light the Last Flare, (Steetley - My Interpretation)

2009-12-26T12:53:00.005Z

A few images that I contributed to the book Now this project is completed the only thing to do now is get the prints ready for the first exhibition in February. I will be getting in touch with a lot more people once we have our launch night date confirmed, but for now here is a taster.

images copyright Andrew Clarke 2010

BRAIN FREEZE

2009-12-20T11:38:00.003Z

My friend Tony has been working on a series of animations for a LBI - D&AD brief for what I assume is a university project, not too sure. but anyway here are the animations he has created so far. Make sure you have your sound on!

A night by the 5 mile

2009-12-18T17:55:00.001Z

Rage Against 'The' Machine

2009-12-18T17:01:00.002Z

'THE' Machine

'if you wanted to clean up the line repeated in the final chant, you could try something along the lines of: "Since I believe police officers and law-makers to be institutionally corrupt, I see no need to follow their instructions." Alan Connor (News.BBC.CO.UK)

The Fun Machine Shat itself and Died

2009-12-18T16:51:00.002Z

Katie Press (my girlfriend) and Mark Chung presented an installation yesterday in our 'University' complex. It aimed to put people in a comforting environment and then flip that on its head by introducing a element of unease. The installation consisted of a corridor in which the floor had been double coated in bubble wrap. The ambient light in the corridor was very low and there was a clown looming in the darkness. It was an effective installation and most people who commented on it, seen the point to it. Most people didn't like the clown though.

Nearly 2 1/2 Years ago exactly

2009-12-16T18:24:00.003Z

acting as a studio assistant for my friend Andrew (although he likes to be called Connor) Tyrrell. This photo was taken during one of our first times using the studio, and one of the last ironically. It was all epic landscapes with derogatory meanings from here on in.

FIRST MAN IN SPACE - SKY DIVING FROM THE EDGE OF THE WORLD

2009-12-16T00:20:00.000Z

Light the Last Flare, The book on Completion

2009-12-13T16:39:00.005Z

As you may (or may not) know I have been collaborating with a few people on a project which looks at the Steetley Magnesite. The plan is for an exhibition, which will hopefully tour to a few different galleries. But along side this, there is a book which is going to be aimed at getting published.

The book consists of 57 Images, at a colossal 14.5 meters this concertina book is a major accomplishment for Andrew Tyrrell, Sam Donegan and Myself.

6th december Night Walk

2009-12-13T13:58:00.002Z

Its been quite a while, 22nd August to be precise since I have done any work on my 'Night Walk' series, also known as 'Halfway From Home'

I have began shooting again, if you are unfarmiliar with the process used to create these images, from an exhibition last year, the following text accompanied the images.

Part of a series of photographs entitled, Halfway From Home, A study of landscape, environment, essence and my relationship with all the factors at hand when these photographs are created. They are as much a meditation practice as they are a photographical process. Standing late at night, wherever i walk to, and at the point where I decide to head back I take a 10min exposure, which is handheld. The reason for the handholding of the camera is for two reasons. The first is that when not using a tripod and standing concentrating you become more aware of your surroundings, and have more connection with the time period that passed between the shutter clicking, which is a major element in relationship with the location. The second is to create the visual effect, which hopefully can draw the viewer into the photograph and make them want to see more. Any questions, criticism, will be greatly appreciated.

argh

2009-12-04T17:34:00.002Z

ive been having problems today with colour correcting with long exposures. I thought this was funny, cheered me up anyway

the third image

2009-12-03T20:29:00.004Z

Another few images taken a few weeks back from my current project 'Five Miles Too Short', in reference to the new Carlisle by-pass. This project is still at its early stages (as is the road) so any constructive criticism would be well appreciated!

Current Listening Vol. 4

2009-12-03T20:10:00.003Z

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I absolutely love this band, being music I grew up with; I always have done. This first album

'Queens of the Stoneage' (self titled) is so hard to come by these days, I only know one person

with a copy of it. I managed to get a download of the album, you should check it out. Its by far their

best work, undoubtedly!

The Last Days With my Father

2009-11-30T21:53:00.002Z

I don't know what to say really about this! You need to read it really. Its much too personal from the photographers point of view for me to make a comment on it.

have a look at Phillip Toledano's last days with his Father

national geographic contest 2009

2009-11-30T21:39:00.002Z

The breakdown is up for some striking individual images from around the world, some not so striking, but even if you cant be arsed to vote for one, you could at least have a look couldn't you?

HERE

Dirty Car Art

2009-11-28T15:42:00.003Z

An interesting look at human interaction with surrounding objects, I don't know how I would react if i seen a man painting with water on the back window of my car.

Have a look HERE

Current Listening Vol. 3

2009-11-28T13:44:00.002Z

I have neglected this stream of posts even though its still at the beginning. Anyway this weeks spotlight shines on LGLP, a band from the Tee-side area of the northeast of England. Mixing industrial techno with electronic metal (with a whole load of other madness in-between). Definitely worth a listen, you can get all 3 EP's HERE at the blog FOR FREE, so what are you waiting for!

Get it in ya!

inside of emptyness

2009-11-27T17:01:00.004Z

A few images from a current project I am working on which will take quite a while to complete. The two images shown here are only a portion of the project (notice lack of narrative) but I thought they might look good up here and maybe give people something to think about.

The project spawned from a lyric I wrote for a new song, like most lyrics and ideas I cannot remember the moment when it appeared in my mind.

"You will end up with nothing,

If you do not commit to starting,

with something you know nothing

about."

Although I am aware that the lyric although the initial catalyst for this project, I am in the process of deciding wether or not it sits well with the images. Anyway here are the first few from this project anyway, with more to follow at a later date.

All photographs and text copyright Andrew Clarke 2009

feeling moist?

2009-11-20T10:53:00.003Z

Well if you live in Carlisle then you will certainly be aware of the height of the two main rivers in the city. The Caldew and what has become the 'epic' River Eden. I went out for a look last night about midnight to see what everyone was flipping out about and was quite shocked myself. In the three year I've been here I haven't seen the Eden as high as it is, and I have been living really close to it all this time.

A few photo's I took while out with my compact, enjoy and if you live in a potentially flooding area I guess you may start praying or doing a sun dance or something.

Current Listening Vol. 2

2009-11-18T09:06:00.002Z

The new, eagerly anticipated album from Modest Mouse. Seems to have left the previous 'We were dead before the ship even sank' clean and well formed sound behind and moved back a few paces into what they used to do so well.

Its fresh, psychadelic and elemental a great album to wake up to!

Southam at Tullie House!

2009-11-16T09:53:00.002Z

Jem Southams current touring exhibition 'Clouds Descending' is coming to Tullie House in Carlisle, what a privilege.

To get your invite for the evening preview, have a look here

Lets get wrecked and start a faith

2009-11-15T22:44:00.003Z

become a minister, marry your dog, build a statue out of bricks and wool to worship. whatever takes your fancy, you can legitimise it here and become a religious leader.

ridiculous!

Panzer Division

2009-11-15T11:52:00.003Z

Imagine the Shock

Merlot Sir?

2009-11-08T12:01:00.002Z

City Of Culture 2013

2009-11-08T11:56:00.002Z

Well, last nights display of public organisation and entertainment was impressive, on a completely different level compared to last years display.

The theme was love, although burning a heart shaped castle? someone in the planning obviously isn't aware of symbols of representation. Aside from this slight humour, it was a good night by all and it was good to see that people actually live here. In the three years I have lived in Carlisle I have never seen so many people walking around the cathedral quarter.

Good stuff!

Wet as ****

2009-11-06T15:24:00.002Z

Just got back from walking the southern section of the Carlisle Bypass. I seen lots of photo's that I had planned on taking but the weather was so shit. Constant torrential rain, there were 3 breaks in the rain, each I waited for under a tree predicting the cloud breaks.

6 miles

3 photos

legs = soaked

back cold + sore

nice walk though I guess.

Il post the images when they come back from the Dev.

Current Listening Vol. 1

2009-11-05T17:56:00.002Z

I'm going to start posting some of the music I am listening to at the moment, usually the albums I stick on when doing work, or just chilling out.
This weeks topic for discussion is a band called Ataxia (which means from ancient Greek ' Lack of Order'
With solid drumming, rolling hypnotic bass lines with rigid but sometimes flowing guitar pieces, tied together with structural lyrical content they are a band any lover of music should get into their system.

Ode to David Smith

2009-11-04T19:32:00.004Z

I am working on a presentation that revolves around my inspirations and favorite artists, I came across this which I haven't read in a long time, it is just as refreshing as the first time I read it.

-----------------

I would like to make sculpture that would rise from
water and tower in the air–
that carried conviction and vision that had not
existed before
that rose from a natural pool of clear water
to sandy shores with rocks and plants
that men could view as natural without reverence or awe
but to whom such things were natural because they were
statements of peaceful pursuit–and joined in the
phenomenon of life
Emerging from unpolluted water at which men could bathe
and animals drink–that
harboured fish and clams and all things natural to it
I don’t want to repeat the accepted fact,
moralize or praise the past or sell a product
I want sculpture to show the wonder of man, that flowing water,
rocks, clouds, vegetation, have for the man in peace who
glories in existence
this sculpture will not be the mystical abode
of power of wealth of religion
Its existence will be its statement
It will not be a scorned ornament on a money changer’s temple
or a house of fear
It will not be a tower of elevators and plumbing with every
room rented, deductions, taxes, allowing for depreciation
amortization yielding a percentage in dividends
It will say that in peace we have time
that a man has vision, has been fed, has worked
it will not incite greed or war
That hands and minds and tools and material made a symbol
to the elevation of vision
It will not be a pyramid to hide a royal corpse from pillage
It has no roof to be supported by burdened maidens
It has no bells to beat the heads of sinners
or clap the traps of hypocrites, no benediction
falls from its lights, no fears from its shadow
this vision cannot be of a single mind– a single concept,
it is a small tooth in the gear of man,
it was the wish incision in a cave,
the devotion of a stone hewer at Memphis
the hope of a Congo hunter
It may be a sculpture to hold in the hand
that will not seek to outdo by bulky grandeur
which to each man, one at a time, offers a marvel of
close communion, a symbol which answers to the holder’s vision,
correlates the forms of woman and nature, stimulates the
recall sense of pleasurable emotion, that momentarily
rewards for the battle of being

Phototelegraphy

2009-11-02T23:34:00.002Z

A gallery of phototelegraphy. Before the internet, the electric telegraph system spanned the globe. The telegraph was developed to such a pitch that — by 1901 — it could be used to send photographs.

And another

2009-11-02T21:00:00.000Z

From the same one

Time for a photo

2009-11-02T20:55:00.002Z

From a current project

RUNNING FROM CAMERA

2009-10-27T11:05:00.002Z

RUNNING FROM CAMERA is a blog I have been following for a long time now and the idea itself is so simple it works on many levels. It seems to me like a different approach to the 'kodak' moment that most people seem obsessed with when they travel anywhere, this 'running from camera' idea appears to be a documentation of where this guy has been, with a bit of fun chucked in.

Its a nice surprise when you see a new one every now and again.

Fast Eddie

2009-09-30T11:16:00.002+01:00

A few years after Richard Billingham's Rays a Laugh, Brenda Ann Kenneally has put her account of her fathers lifestyle into the public eye. It could be said to be a response to Billinghams connection with his father, but I feel rather than exposing her father she is simply showing how he is, take it or leave it.

Where Billingham could have been said to be exploiting his fathers decline in aid of 'Art', Kenneally is showing a deeper, more compassionate look at her fathers recklessness. Although both photo essays are looking at an arguably similar issue from an approach which lies at very different ends of the spectrum, there is no denying that Kenneally's more recent project feeds into what Richard Billingham was trying to say; and vice versa.

You must have a look HERE

Things cost more, but we all earn the same

2009-09-18T13:22:00.001+01:00

Down to my last few quid, should have budgeted last week.

tasting the air...

2009-09-14T12:06:00.003+01:00

I can taste dust, grime, shite; all types of disgusting industrial leftovers.........

but at least we got a preliminary set of images to work with for the exhibition.

The Fall of Kodachrome, Hitler's Fury

2009-09-08T20:50:00.003+01:00

better to view in fullscreen, also it helps if your a photographer

Hidden Gem

2009-09-08T19:30:00.002+01:00

This little plantation of what appear to be birch i think, is an area of the hillside i used to drive/walk or cycle past almost everyday and until Sunday night I had never ventured in and explored the place. Its a very strange landscape, seems completely pointless to have an orchard to effect of these trees. They are not of much use commercially, maybe the landowner just likes them.

Either way i found it quite surreal to have this collection of trees right by a main road, and up the hillside for no apparent reason. I think il go back in a few months time and see what changes the winter brings to this manmade landscape, it may even be maintained for a reason unknown to me. Il try and find the farmer next time as it proved unsuccessful this time.

---

Man I love that camera :)

Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros

2009-09-05T00:45:00.004+01:00

I dont know what to say really, it kinda reminds me of the

doors combined with modest mouse with a dash of arcade

fire.

whatever it reminds me of, I'm liking it, pretty psychedelic, the best way.

Canonet GIII QL17

2009-09-02T18:07:00.004+01:00

Finally recieved my little rangefinder today, then headed straight out and put a roll of Superia through it while I had my dog (Charlie) out for a walk in the 'New Forest'.

I must say I'm really happy with the camera's workings and the lens is pretty sharp too, although I didnt really put it to the test too hard, but the photos at 100% are sharp as a carving knife and they were only scanned using the scanners in Tesco. Cant wait to get future rolls in the Flex-tight back at uni.

Have a look.

Click below

2009-09-01T23:37:00.006+01:00

HERE

I do a small bit of climbing myself, very very small compared to Alain Robert, im sure everyone has heard of him, the human spider, or spiderman. His main aim in life is to climb every sky scraper on the planet, he's got a lot of the largest ones already under his belt. A true legend.

His accomplishments include - National Bank of Abu Dhabi, Empire State Building, Sears Tower, Golden Gate Bridge, Petronas Tower 1, Jin Mao Building and about 80 others. Insane!

Rafal Pruszynski – Riverside

2009-08-27T19:55:00.003+01:00

Well, the context of this work is better put by Rafal himself that I would be able to explain so, get it in ya' first before looking at the photo's.

I shot “Riverside” at the same time as I shot Little Pieces of us, and both are still on-going projects. The shooting, and showing of Pieces was a very intense experience since it was highly personal and highly intimate. I began Riverside first as simply a visually interesting project, but it quickly turned into a counter to Pieces. Whereas Pieces was very intense, Riverside was a way for me to get away from that, to step back, become more contemplative. Riverside and Pieces are opposites in many ways. One is black and white, one is color. One is more in the moment, shot on intuition, the other more composed. Riverside, became an escape from Pieces, and as such it can even be viewed as another side of the same coin. With Pieces I had co-authors very much involved in the project. With Riverside it was just me.

One thing I’m most interested in with the projects I shoot is to explore my immediate world. I don’t travel often and when I do I find that I am never happy with the photos I take. With my immediate surroundings I can take time to explore and to get what I intend. Most of the photographs in this project were shot within walking distance of where I live or work.

Riverside is a chapter in a larger on-going project entitled “Marooned”. South Korea though not technically an island, is still cut off from the rest of Asia by North Korea, a barrier more difficult to cross than any sea or ocean. It is therefore a de-facto island, an island I have been living on for the last 8 years. “Marooned” is my look at the island that has been my home for nearly a decade, and will remain so for another 2 years.

Check out his photo essay at burnmagazine

BBC Feature

2009-08-27T12:47:00.002+01:00

I got featured on the BBC Cumbria website, a nice surprise. I sent stuff in ages ago and only realised today that I have been featured on the main arts page.

Have a look HERE

John Pfahl

2009-08-26T20:07:00.004+01:00

His work has interested me for sometime now, his oldest (professional) project began his exploration of the landscape that surrounds us, this project aims to outline elements of the scenes to create compositions that wouldn't other-wisely have the same impact.

Images Copyright John Pfahl 2009

For more of his projects, have a look HERE

in Bb 2.0

2009-08-25T19:59:00.001+01:00

THIS HERE is one of the most individual, unique and exciting idea's i have seen in a long time!

Nietzsche’s Last Days

2009-08-22T17:11:00.002+01:00

I was out today with my mates band, we are working together to try and get some promo shots together for their new demo/website and whatever else requires imagery.

We didnt really have many ideas for locations so we just drove around looking for something interesting. Here are a few images from todays shoot, there should be more up at the end of next week depending on how the next shoot goes.

Check the bands self produced demo out HERE

Yao Lu

2009-08-21T00:49:00.005+01:00

I have just come across something that has blown my mind visually. Have a look at this work by Yao Lao, then look closer! HERE and HERE

His/Her not sure on the sex of this artist but its not them at this moment in time I find interesting, The reference to ancient chinese painting combined with 'Human relationship with landscape'(a personal favorite) is astounding. I want to see them hanging infront of my face!

Simply.......

2009-08-19T17:17:00.002+01:00

Just another place I rest on the old 'RecordS'

18miles this time

posing a question

2009-08-15T13:09:00.006+01:00

As you may know Im interested in our (as humans) relationship with the landscape and how this is changing, and has been changing rapidly since the Industrial Revolution.

These three images are at probably the most extreme end of one side of the spectrum, mainly because of the process involved to get them how they look now.

All these photo's were composed, framed etc in Google Street View, then mildly touched in photoshop, mainly colours. In todays western world you don't even need to leave your armchair to go 'taking photographs'. In relation with our landscapes, you can basically wander (so to speak) around the open countryside, cities etc and take in the views of places you have never been; sad really that someone thought this would be a good idea, although I cant see it becoming a replacement.

These first 3 images are within 15mins of my house, depending on how i feel towards this idea, i may post some more later in the week.

tell me what you think, do you have any questions?

MSF

2009-08-15T10:52:00.004+01:00

I just seen this 'advert' on Manchester Photography, very gripping footage but I dont know if I agree with what MSF is trying to achieve with this approach, especially since it is being used as a cinema advertisement for the charity.

Its understandable that they are going for the shock factor but I think the creators or 'visionaries' for this clip are far connected from the people out in Africa conducting the aid work, True that things like this happen but this is not the only work that MSF conducts and not all of Africa is like this? Its confusing what they are trying to say and I think the creators didnt really think it through properly, If the boys family hadn't have been destroyed would the doctor still help him? is the audio real? are we seeing the scene first hand? many questions on a tough subject. Im not sure what my opinion is at this moment in time.

Insane!

2009-08-15T10:40:00.002+01:00

Im a bit partial to a good skate video from time to time

Huge Inspiration

2009-08-13T23:44:00.003+01:00

image copyright Sky news 2009

I remember the first time I heard an electric guitar being played in front of me and it was a life changing experience, the tone, the emotion that can be captured through a few strings, some wiring, a speaker and a good slice of wood. I've been playing the guitar ever since, completely obsessed with the endless amount of options and medative properties that guitar playing holds.

A true Genius and I'm sure will be missed, but at least he left an awesome legacy behind to be remembered by!

Farewell Les Paul

Day 6

2009-08-12T14:58:00.003+01:00

Getting things together in our bags for the next stage of the journey to lough Neagh and potentially on home to Carrickfergus, all today hopefully; 67 Miles.

My bed was like sleeping in a half open book or a badly dug trench, worst night comfort-wise so far, would rather have preferred the tent.

-------

We made it the entire way on day 6 back home, with the one stop in Ballymena. with the only two falls on the bikes during the trip. I comically fell off at a small roundabout and Aaron got his eye divebombed by a bee or somthing big on a dual carrigeway, he also fell off.

Day 5

2009-08-12T14:51:00.003+01:00

Left around lunch and made our way to Dunluce Castle, then onto Portrush where I bought a dodgey salad from costcutter, really gloopy and slimy. So we just had had roast beef and red onion sarnies by the harbour.

Headed on round the coast to Portstewart where eventually we found Ricks Hostel, not craigs hostel as I had thought. We sat by the shore with a few tins on Bass after a couple of Black Bush in the Anchor (yeehaarrr...!)

Day 4

2009-08-12T14:38:00.004+01:00

09:30

Slept Brilliant as rain stopped. Didn't get invaded by ticks I think. Gonna get up and head for the boat back to Ballycastle.

In Bush Strand, camped near beach. Left Ballycastle and headed past Carrick-a-rede then stopped briefly at giants causeway carpark before heading to this strand/beach.

We had an awesome day, a good cycle, lots of ups and downs; the hills were pretty crazy! then after we set up our tents in the out of bounds area in the Golf Course, we headed to the beach and body surfed for a good hour, followed by dinner and a walk into what we thought was Port Ballintre but it was actually Bushmills.

Had a few bottles from the Offies then sat on the beach...

All in all a good day.

Goodnight

Day 3

2009-08-11T10:39:00.006+01:00

21:50

Just sitting on Rathlin, on the coast at the top of a plateau in my tent.

Rain is pouring down which is quite noisy. Earlier, we went round the coast, seen and explored some monumental coastal scenery. Was like something from a fantasy novel, reminded me of 'Shadow of a Dark Queen' when they land/shipwrecked on Novindus for the first time.

We have be plagued by various insects as this place is virtually untouched by humans; Mainly grass ticks, absolutely everywhere. Every 5 mins you find half a dozen on your arms/legs/torso, a right pain in the arse! I'm getting bitten as I write.

We have been getting invaded all day since we pitched tent.

Was at lighthouse and seen a small colony of puffins, a spanish guy who had lived in Whitehead gave me a bird badge and I gave him a pound, he also worked there.

During heavy rain after dinner - Hangman Results -

'The Dark Knight' 5lives left Aaron 1

'Man on Wire' 5lives left Andy 1

'Lost in La Mancha' 2lives left Aaron 1

'Castaway' 5lives left Andy 1

'Heat' 1life left Aaron 1

'Apollo 13' 4lives left Andy 1

'Space Jam' 0lives left Aaron 0

22:12

Fairly warm, although it is still loud from rain. Tired and Excited for what lies ahead for tomorrow.

22:44

Beyond Care, too tired, going to sleep.

Day 2

2009-08-11T00:32:00.002+01:00

After the previous day all we wanted was a day of rest, there's only one photo from ballycastle but I think it portrays the days events perfectly.

---Journal Entry

Cycled from Glenariff to Ballycastle, 17miles; 9 or which were uphill over a mountain! very hard work to say the least. At hostel now, just got washed off the beach by the rain. Did get to swim in icy sea with Rathlin Island on the Horizon, hopefully be on there in the morning.

Well over halfway now until portstewart, which is why we rest today. Bike ride this morning to about 2 hours.

Just had shower, no idea of the time now although I think fish & chips are needed, and a pint.

Our room mate is a diver from west Meath, he's dived around Rathlin but hasn't been on the island yet, we might see him there tomorrow.

Pub sounds good now though!

Day 1

2009-08-11T00:15:00.007+01:00

Im going to add my diary entries along with the photographs from the last five days; which are relevant to the individual entries.

09.04 - Set off early in morning, made it to carnfunnock by 11 - had an orange for a boost

then Glenariff by 3. Showered then went to cook dinner, I had bought wrong gas; cycled 3 miles on dodgey roads to get some un-cookable food.

Ate. witnessed my tent getting raped by flying ants

Walked down 'rainbow trail' then invented a new form of table tennis, involving pot lids and pinecones.

--------

All images copyright Andrew Clarke

Check back tomorrow for Day 2

A taster...

2009-08-10T15:23:00.004+01:00

...From my journey up the Antrim/Causeway Coast line.

I felt the need to create an image for my 'Halfway From Home' ideology, this image was created at Bush Strand, near Bushmills.

Il post all the images from the roll later, but for now, just a taster....

Due North

2009-08-04T00:33:00.002+01:00

Im setting off tomorrow with a friend to cycle up the Antrim Coast, from Carrickfergus to Portstewart way up in the north of the country. Wish me luck and il be back in a week with hopefully some interesting photos and story's to go with.

Human Relationship with Landscape (The Topographic Movement)

2009-08-02T11:31:00.003+01:00

The New Topographics photography movement, started in the 1970s. Mainly through young photographers looking to explore how the planet we inhibit is viewed, perceived and ultimately treated. It challenged back then the idea or thought process behind what a landscape photograph was, questioning the work of Ansel Adams for example and how imagery like this sits in todays contemporary world; does anyone see scenes like this anymore, and does anyone want to see things like this anymore. Is the romanticism of these scenes lost on todays individual?

"Exploring man’s inherent interaction with nature – its manipulation, destruction, and regeneration – adds an element of stark honesty into an otherwise romanticized and phony idyll that is landscape photography."

Jonathan Feinstein

HIs book titled “In the Dirt: Young Photographers Rethinking the Human Relationship to the Contemporary Landscape” sheds light on the predecessors, whose influence is important, but gives a much-needed fresh perspective. worth a read!

Jason Lazarus’ photograph “Wall of Fire” presents just that: an ominous blaze whose destructive power is palpable but just far enough for the viewer to enjoy the surrounding beauty it can potentially devastate. The image is at once that of a sculptural structure and an elemental force. An equally poignant work is Rachel Sussman’s photograph of a forlorn tree standing alone amidst a rock quarry, large cracks ready to open and swallow the little tree fighting for survival. Sussman’s image reconfigures societal problems and human shortcomings by capturing a scene in the isolation of pure nature.

Source Block Magazine

Image of Winter in the Sun

2009-08-01T23:08:00.002+01:00

2009-07-31T01:37:00.004+01:00

Images copyright GoAbove.com

Quote:

When approached by the Police explain (if you can) what you're painting.

If they think your painting is an "eyesore" give the police some paint and invite them help out.
If that fails change your acting roles from "Street Painter"
to "Bank Robber" and get the fuck out of there!

This is the work of a street artist who go's by the name of GoAbove, not much more is known about him. His work comes across as an interrail story across Europe to an International Jetset across the world. What a student project! Really quirky and inspirational uniqueness to his approach to street art, a term which usually is associated with spray paint art. Like the previous post shows, there is a lot more to this medium.

P.S. Dont forget to look out for the Hanging Arrows!

2009-07-30T00:37:00.004+01:00

Installation artists Gabriel Primo and Tiago Primo are combining climbing with art and public interaction. Getting people interested in art is very important thing, even if they dont entirely understand why or how it can be art, or why they like it. The fact that they see something in it that they never assumed they would is the most important thing about art.

Simply.......

2009-07-29T16:55:00.001+01:00

Another one like before, but a few miles further.

Simply......

2009-07-29T16:47:00.005+01:00

.....Just places I rest when out on the old 'RecordS'

Only 9 miles, but very elevated.

2009-07-29T14:42:00.002+01:00

Possible the cheesiest advert for any computer software i have ever seen. Shows the lengths companies are going to see their products during this recession. Ah well, at least it has Jackie Chan's expertise fighting away evil viruses!!

The End of an Era

2009-07-26T14:09:00.004+01:00

I am working on a documentary project with Sam in Hartlepool at a place called Steetley.We are aiming to preserve some part or essence of this magnesium plant. These photographs are some test/location shots that I shot during the week. The photographs hopefully will not only capture the sadness but also the beauty of industrial decline. The Steetley site is somewhere that has to be documented because it is such a visually intense place, and we feel people need to see these images, before the site disappears forever. One of our proposed venues for display is the Bank Gallery in Carlisle, plus another in Hartlepool. Although, this exhibition has the potential to go further afield, with the possibility of showing in more locations across the north of England.

Tv On the Radio

2009-07-26T13:55:00.003+01:00

Decent band about at the minute, I have been listening to Return to Cookie Mountain, Its a very strange album from a artistic point of view, there is not much standard structure to the majority of the songs.

Its a very indepth and interesting album...

Shame about the Album cover, someone went a bit crazy on photoshop with no voice in their head asking them to question what the hell they were playing at!

Ref.

2009-07-25T14:27:00.003+01:00

Got a new guitar, well its pretty old actually, needs a lot of restoring so over the next few months you'l hopefully see some changes..

edit'

Discovered through a few forums that its a 1978 Ibanez FA100. Manufacturing ended in 1984 so its quite a vintage rarity. I feel so lucky and thanks again to my Uncle Norman for the Donation!

Electric Windows

2009-07-23T23:33:00.003+01:00

Image by Daryll Peirce

A very pure and inspirational project being undertaken by painters stretching the capabilities of spray paint & mixed media within the surroundings of an old building in NY.

Check out the website

2009-07-23T11:01:00.003+01:00

For anyone interested in the lesser seen and talked about locations on our planet, this Documentary directed by Werner Hertzog will definitely blow you away. Exploring the continent of Antartica and the people + colonies that live there. It really is an amazing exploration into possibly the last undamaged landscape on the planet.

check the trailer HERE

Backdated a week or so

2009-07-22T23:07:00.004+01:00

From the infamous 11th Night in Northern Ireland. A view from the Knockagh mountain of the 'Bon Fires' lit on the day before the parades in the centre of the city.

An Alternate view on this event.

Addictive City

2009-07-22T22:56:00.005+01:00

Just back from Amsterdam and must say that the effects of the city and the layouts and the sights to be seen everyday are enough for me; with the occasional pint in between. For the first time in months I was just roaming completely free with my camera without having to think too much about an assignment, I could just explore and let my imagination do the work.

a few images that I picked out, each as diverse as the next; just like Amsterdam

Halfway From Home

2009-07-16T00:44:00.000+01:00

Quite literal in its explanation, I was halfway from home when I made these 'exposures'. This work is a few months old, but I thought I would put it up anyway as it suits my mood at the minute, sitting up late. Heading to amsterdam tomorrow, so hopefully lots of nice pictures to show when I get back!

Man Of Aran

2009-07-15T21:38:00.000+01:00

I came across an album by 'British Sea Power' a while ago from a friend, its called 'Man of Aran',
loved the album but didnt realise it was a sound track made this year for a film that was made in 1934 by Robert J. Flaherty.

Flaherty was also director of photography and clearly a sharp eye for composition, the film is classed as a documentary but the characters were all chosen by Flaherty for their photogenic qualities and the locations on the island equally.

here is a section of the film overlayed with the soundtrack, the purpose of the soundtrack was for the films DVD rerelease later this year.

Look HERE

I wont come home

2009-07-15T21:23:00.000+01:00

Recent look at movement and fluidity, the idea of journey and exploring, the rush and buzz of getting off a train in a new city you know nothing about. People selling strange items from stalls, unfamiliar façade's and street markings; a new step in the adventure.

The journey to get to the location in this moment in time is almost instantly forgotten even though you were most likely looking out the window for the duration of the journey.

The adjacent roof

2009-07-15T20:59:00.000+01:00

Iseem to have an affiliation with campfires and the atmosphere that surrounds them, be them by the sea, by a river or in the open countryside; I still cant seem to understand, or rather portray the experience as it actually feels to me through an image, or at least as close a portrayal as possible.

from the most recent fire --

New And Improved

2009-07-15T20:19:00.000+01:00

Im pretty new to this whole blog caper, my last blog situated here -> http://cumbriaphotography.ning.com/profiles/blog/list?user=0jzh2qttds5iy was an inhouse blog to do with the University, not very spectacular from a presentation perspective really.

So this is a move to make something a touch more professional and, interesting looking.