Towner gallery exhibition

Collective Observations: Folklore & Photography from Benjamin Stone to Flickr

13 October 2012 – 6 January 2013 (admission free)

Photographs from Henry Bourne’s  British Folklore Portrait project will be a part of a new exhibition of photographs at the Towner gallery, Eastbourne – the contemporary art museum for South East England.

 

 

 

 

“Since 1897, when Sir Benjamin Stone established the National Photographic Record Association (NPRA), photographers have had a fascination with the rites and rituals of Britain.

This exhibition explores the complimentary relationship between photography and folklore practice – featuring contributions from Henry Bourne, Faye Claridge, Tom Chick, Matthew Cowan, David Ellison, Sara Hannant, Brian Shuel, The Benjamin Stone Collection, Doc Rowe and Homer Sykes.

There are 720 recorded events, rites and customs practiced in the UK each year, and folklore is reflected in every element of our community, life and values. Folklore is a vibrant element of ‘Britishness’ and a living cultural heritage that links the past to the present, helping us to understand our communities and cultures as well as our shared humanity.

Collective Observations will consider the enduring appeal of vernacular traditions
as rich subject matter for image makers, and explore how photographers have
consistently turned their lenses toward the spectacle of these archaic customs –
whether by documenting events (like Homer Sykes and Sara Hannant), making
portraits (Henry Bourne, David Ellison) or taking a more conceptual approach
(Matthew Cowan, Tom Chick).

Curated by the Museum of British Folklore in conjunction with Towner”

copyright: Towner gallery