PHOTOGRAPHY
Bedford, like all towns, has its iconic buildings and attractive areas which are often reproduced to create a sense of identity. Having lived in Bedford for most of my life, I was drawn to depicting the town in a less representational way. For this project, I have photographed architectural details using oblique angles. I shot in monochrome on days where direct sunlight created strong shadows, aiming to bring out the geometry and drama of the buildings with compositions that exaggerated perspectives. A few locations encouraged multiple visits as they offered different facets depending on the angle of the approach. Buildings that I pass so often were given a platform to reveal their architectural qualities; some buildings being new additions to Bedford, whilst others being staples of the town's landscape. Shop fronts change, but the architecture above remains, giving a snapshot into the past. I presented bold shapes that cut into the skyline but I have avoided natural forms, people and text wherever possible. A few clouds appear in reflections but all skies are presented in flat tones of grey to ensure the focal point remained on the architecture. Within this pristine high contrast view of Bedford, you will see cracks, mould and other imperfections upon a closer inspection. A few buildings, such as the railway station, are not immediately recognisable but this was never a concern. This work invites you to view Bedford without prejudice or need of context, it is by no means critical in its depiction, but simply a celebration of architectural line and form.
