Year 12 A-Level Photography students recently visited Hastings for a practical photography trip, where they explored the theme of “Simple and Complex” through their images. Taking inspiration from the abstract work of Aaron Siskind, students carefully observed textures, pattern, and contrasts within the coastal environment.
Artist Inspiration: Aaron Siskind
We took inspiration from photographer Aaron Siskind on this trip. He started out in New York as a high school English teacher before diving into photography in the 1930s. His early work focused on social issues, especially through The Harlem Document, but by the 1940s he shifted toward abstract photography.
Siskind’s abstract photos helped push American art forward, showing that photography didn’t have to be just about representation. His work bridged the gap between documentary styles of the '30s and the more personal, artistic photography of the '50s and '60s.
PHOTOGRAPHIC OUTCOMES
Analogue Photography
Alongside digital work, students also shot on 35mm film cameras and a medium format Rolleiflex, giving them the opportunity to further their technical skills and creative approaches. The film will be developed in upcoming lessons, allowing students to compare and reflect on the differences between digital and analogue processes in their exploration of the theme.
Cyanotype Experiments
Following the trip we also experimented with Cyanotype - making use of the sunlight before it disappeared for winter!
Students collected objects from the shore such as scraps of rope and shells. These items are then placed on UV-sensitive paper and exposed to sunlight for 10 minutes. After it has been exposed, the chemical is washed from the paper and the prints are left to dry.