Sylvan

Sylvan is an ongoing project that delves into the natural beauty of woodland environments across the South West. This project not only celebrates the flora of these landscapes but also integrates them into the very process of image making. By foraging plants such as nettles and chestnuts from the local terrain, photographic film developer is created from these natural resources. This alternative approach brings the essence of the land directly into the physicality of the negatives, offering a unique and organic touch to the images.

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While this method of using foraged materials as developers presents a more sustainable alternative to traditional darkroom chemicals, it also introduces an element of unpredictability. Each batch of developer can yield different results, influenced by the specific characteristics of the plants used and the conditions of their environment. This unpredictability adds a layer of complexity and intrigue to the project, reflecting the dynamic and ever-changing nature of the woodlands themselves.

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The resulting photographs aim to provide an immersive experience, drawing viewers into the heart of the forests and woodlands at a profound, root-level perspective. The images capture the intricate details and textures of the woodland environment, offering a deep and intimate connection with the natural world.

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"Woods, like water, have been suppressed by motorways and the modern world, and have come to look like the subconscious of the landscape." Roger Deakin, Wildwood