Robert MacFarlane explores the division between reality and imagination in his book ‘Mountains of our Minds’. The reality of undertaking an expedition to summit or traverse a significant natural landmark is elevated in the mind of the individual. The mountain that is visualised commonly fails to match the mountain that is seen. It is this disparity between experience and visual representation that has encouraged the body of work. The images I have created take a fragmented look at the environment, representing the familiar in isolation from the surroundings.
My photographic practice was initiated based on an individual fear of these remote areas, locations that, although perilous, still entice and draw in artists and explorers. These environments deliver both mental and physical challenges. To realise this complexity the camera is used as a tool for comprehension and purpose. Edmund Burke’s theory on the ‘sublime’ scaffolds the origins of this project; the notion of romantic grandeur, intertwined with horror and terror, is never far away.
The contents of my bookcase have become my mountain guide; when deciding what adventure to take on next I turn to the multitude of nature and adventure writers for inspiration. Through delving into their personal encounters they encourage me to visit the landscape and create my own experience. This project follows the words and footsteps of Gwen Moffat, the first women mountain guide. In times of peril my husband will often turn to me and questions ‘What would Gwen do?’ Her strength has carried me through many moments of fear, but equally allowed me to turn to safety when necessary.
This project is a reaction to her book ‘Space Below My Feet’, first published in 1961. It examines the individual experience of rural locations, through bringing together photographic imagery and the re-appropriation of literature.
Selected images from Hazel’s Space —– My —- series are shown below. (click to view image at full size / format)
ABOUT HAZEL SIMCOX
Hazel utilises the camera as a tool to enable her to communicate both communal and personal discussions. Her most recent practice focuses on the environment and the individual experience of engaging with a rural landscape.
Hazel studied BA(hons) Photography at Blackpool and the Fylde College (2006-2009) and undertook a Mlitt History of Photography at St Andrews University (2012-2013). She is a qualified lecturer currently teaching across a range of levels at North Warwickshire and Hinckley College, including delivering on the BA(Hons) Visual Media, in affiliation with Coventry University.
Hazel is a passionate researcher and writer, and is a regular contributor to the online magazine Photomonitor. Her personal research focuses on the complex relationship between photography and time.
Website: hazelsimcox.co.uk
Instagram: @hazelsimcox
EXHIBITION
Hazel is a current participant in the East Meets West Photography Masterclasses, organised by GRAIN and Format Festival, hosted by BCU and The Quad. Professional guidance has been provided a range of industry professionals, including Natasha Caruana, Michael Sargeant and Matthew Murray. Her project ‘Space —– My —-‘ will be exhibited as part of the Format Festival at The Eagle Market, Derby (14th March – 14th April)
https://formatfestival.com/whats-on/east-meets-west/
CREDITS
Unless otherwise stated, all words and images in this article are © Hazel Simcox
