The Story Behind Our Award-Winning Foundation
Welcome! I’d like to take you on a deeply personal journey that led to the creation of our foundation, a journey that is rooted in the transformative power of photography and the unyielding resilience of the human spirit. For two years, I was homeless, adrift in a world where every day felt like a battle […]
Rebuilding After Loss: My Journey Through Homelessness and Resilience
A year ago, I faced a major turning point in my life when I lost my job. For six years, I had worked in a warehouse, a job I had grown accustomed to and relied on for my livelihood. Before that, I had another warehouse job as an operator, so my experience in this field […]
The History of Social Documentary Photography in the UK
Early Beginnings Social documentary photography in the UK has its roots in the 19th century, paralleling the rise of industrialization and urbanization. One of the earliest and most notable practitioners was Thomas Annan, a Scottish photographer who documented the slums of Glasgow in the 1860s. His work, “Photographs of Old Closes and Streets of Glasgow,” […]
THE HISTORY OF SOCIAL DOCUMENTARY PHOTOGRAPHY
The Role and Impact of Social Documentary Photography Social documentary photography is a powerful and influential genre that captures and highlights social issues and the lives of marginalized communities. This form of photography goes beyond mere aesthetics to provide a visual narrative that fosters empathy and drives advocacy for social change. By presenting unfiltered images, […]
“Unseen Echoes” Exhibition to Shine at St Albans Cathedral
We are delighted to announce that the “Unseen Echoes” exhibition will be showcased at the prestigious St Albans Cathedral. This landmark venue, with its rich history and over 500,000 visitors annually, provides an incredible platform for our exhibition. When: Tuesday 12th – Sunday 24th November 2024 Where: North Transept, St Albans Cathedral, Sumpter Yard, St […]
Finding Stability and Purpose: Mark’s Journey to Recovery
My name is Mark, and I’m 47 years old. I’m currently living in a house that I managed to secure on my own. Along the way, I met Tom, who has been a tremendous help in guiding me toward a new direction in life and bringing much-needed structure back into my daily routine. I actively […]
Faces of St Albans: Diversity and Social Challenges
We are thrilled to announce our latest project, “Faces of St Albans,” which celebrates the rich diversity and addresses the social challenges within our community. This initiative will feature 500 photographs of local residents and brings to light stories of low income, disability, and racial inequality. Our aim is to foster empathy and understanding by […]
Love-Bombed and Blinded: A Journey from Abuse to Empowerment
I met my ex while working part-time in a coffee shop. At the time, I was juggling work and studies, just trying to keep everything afloat. He walked in one day, all charm and swagger, and within a week, we were officially boyfriend and girlfriend. Now, looking back, I realise I was completely love-bombed: extravagant dinners at expensive restaurants, lavish gifts of nice clothes, thrilling nights out, and exhilarating adventures in his convertible. He was in a band, and everything about our relationship seemed like an exciting dream. But dreams can quickly turn into nightmares.
Unveiling “UNSEEN ECHOES”: A Night to Remember
The “UNSEEN ECHOES” exhibition, launched on July 1, 2024, at St Paul’s Church in St Albans, highlighted domestic abuse impacts. Attendees included the High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, Annie Brewster JP, and the Mayor of St Albans, Cllr Jamie Day. Organizations such as SADA, Safer Places, Welwyn & Hatfield Women’s Refuge, Verso Church, Aylesbury Women’s Aid, and St Paul’s Church attended. The exhibition will be on display until July 17, with plans for future venues and a call for funding to continue sharing stories of hope. For more info, visit UNSEEN ECHOES.
A Journey of Resilience: Overcoming Addiction and Homelessness
I’m 33, turning 34 this year. I’m a recovering addict, now in my fifth year of sobriety. About 15 years ago, I lost my flat in Hatfield and found myself homeless. I decided to move to Great Yarmouth, but that decision only deepened my struggles. In hindsight, I wish I had stayed in Hertfordshire, but […]