Deborah Baker
From ‘Splitting the Trees’
Left: Sangusostis
Middle: Controversa
Right: Camellias
This is a series of photographic images developed from combining visual ideas in both wild landscape and domestic cultivation, especially concerning the effects of the vagaries in the climate, the hot summer and the shift in the seasons. In 2006 I planted a woodland garden, and this is now the main concentration of my work. My aim is to continue to capture the transformation of the garden as it matures and establishes as a woodland. Each image intends to capture the varied conditions of light and time of day to depict the season and cycle of growth and decay. To create these images, I use and regeneration a number of photographs. Employing image-editing software, particularly techniques of montage and layering to increase perception of space within the image and create complexity with intense visual resonance.
Layered digital photographic images.
THE PANDEMIC EFFECT
Last autumn I returned to the garden in Cornwall after a 5 -year absence. I began planting the woodland garden from 2003, and it is the main inspiration for my photographic work. During the recent time of lockdown, I have had the opportunity to contemplate and give full attention to my practice.
I am certainly one of the lucky ones being surrounded by nature. In the early weeks of lockdown, I found the intensity and clarity of light and colour exceptional. It also became blissfully quiet without traffic noise and the birdsong and hum of insects was so evident.
Each day I record my observations in the garden, photographing the detailed changes in growth and how the light alters colour and form, from one moment to the next. My intention is to create images that reflect atmosphere, colour, vitality and regeneration.
Using social media to connect with others working with similar concerns has been very reassuring and inspiring, having positive interactions with many working creatively alongside the natural world. I have no doubt that my photographic work will evolve as the garden matures and my understanding and concerns for the environment continue to develop.