Residing in a town like Blackpool, which faces various socio-economic challenges, I find solace in expressing my personal experiences through photography. By employing creativity as a visual language, I am able to explore the complexities of human experiences, fostering a sense of empowerment. My work captures the diverse aspects of Blackpool, from its vibrant seaside attractions to collaborative efforts with community groups, advocating for workshops that harness the democratic power of photography.
As we witness a decline in creative subjects within educational institutions in working-class areas, it seems that artistic disciplines are becoming increasingly accessible primarily to those from more privileged backgrounds. This trend suggests that the arts are often viewed not as a legitimate avenue for generating capital, but rather as a frivolous pursuit lacking tangible outcomes.
Creative expression—through music, poetry, photography, and visual arts—serves as a vital outlet for self-exploration and personal expression. Does the commercialization of creativity through institutions and venues often creates an unwelcoming atmosphere for the broader community. When we were little the first things we did, was mark make, sing, dance and play.
I am intrigued by how we foster exchange through creativity, particularly in the context of my own diverse life experiences growing up and working in an area marked by significant socio-economic challenges. I am interested in exploring how we can collaboratively create different approaches through creative action to amplify sometimes stigmatised voices.
Recently, I have been engaged with Streetlife, a charity dedicated to assisting homeless youth. I spent an afternoon discussing how if left homeless as a young person we find accommodation. In discussion with Nathan Parker, a poet from Blackpool, Ashleigh, a Streetlife employee, and two young men who have experienced displacement as part of a podcast series.
Our conversation centered around the fundamental right to safe and warm accommodation, highlighting the complexities that often complicate this pursuit. Many young people find that the pathway to finding housing is obscured, as they may not fully understand the red tape requirements, such as providing references and paying at least three months' rent in advance. For a 19-year-old, having a secure home environment should be a fundamental expectation as they navigate the transition into adulthood.
While having a safe and warm bed may not rank highly on the priorities of many young people who possess a strong family support system, it is essential to recognise that everyone deserves the fundamental right to a secure and nurturing environment. Those fortunate enough to feel confident and have access to basic needs such as warmth and nourishment often overlook the importance of these simple comforts. It is vital to acknowledge that every individual should have the opportunity to pursue their hopes and ambitions in a safe and stable setting, or else those ambitions become lost.
I don’t have the answer. But I want when working with diverse groups to feel like there are spaces where difficult circumstances can be explored and space held.
