Some years ago, however, I was moved to tears by an exhibition of Kate Bellis’ photography – Derbyshire Hill Farmers in Crisis. For five years Kate lived amongst sheep farmers in the north of Derbyshire, becoming immersed in their lives, so that she could record their world with empathy, from an inside, informed perspective. Later she moved to Moor Cottage Farm, Wirksworth Moor, recording the last year before the farm, the land and all the out buildings sold, and were converted into expensive living accommodation. Her photographs show a way of life that is alien to most of us – an everyday connection with the land, the seasons and weather, birth and death that we’re rarely touched by. These glimpses into lives lived, in a world that has all but disappeared, move me profoundly.
I’ve recently found another photography gallery that really touches me – this time online – Sylvia Selzer’s photography and storytelling website. In her most recent story, a little child, Nokuthula, who lives in Soweto, dances in the sunlight, with such energy and joy. What more to say?