Art

Seaside Snapshots

Most photographs of seaside piers conform to a similar view, we see the pier, side-on, from the shore sometimes at night and illuminated as an attraction. This typical viewpoint has its origins in the seaside postcard of the type promoted by John Hinde in the 1950's and 60's.

The (framed) images I have made relate more to the experience of being on the pier, we've all experienced some of these things – the walk to the end, the sound of the sea, the water beneath our feet. These are 'pleasure piers' a concept which is not unique to Britain but one that has its roots in our seaside heritage. These structures inhabit a place which is constantly shifting between land and water. They are under attack from the elements and many have been lost to storms and fire. They provide a safe place to be near to the sea, somewhere where we may temporarily escape the land.

The unframed images look at similar areas of our seaside. Taken late at night and lit by artificial light sources such as street lighting or attractions. This is an alternative seaside, one devoid of daylight and people.

If you would like to know more about our seaside piers, the National Piers Society publish a guide and also have a website – www.piers.co.uk