This Pleasant Land | My Photo Bookshelf

Photobook
Written By Trevor Sherwin

Over time, I’ve found myself more and more drawn to the British landscape. At some point, I realised that no one person can truly see and photograph it all — at least not properly. And honestly, I’m okay with that. These days, I’m more than happy to explore this country I call home through the eyes of the many talented photographers who are just as passionate about capturing its beauty and diversity.

This Pleasant Land brings together 24 small photographic collections. Each one is different in subject, but they all share a common thread: every collection tells its own unique story about the British landscape in one way or another.

Synopsis

24 photographers capture Britain today. 

The British Landscape is changing. Geographically, politically, even emotionally, the boundary lines of Britain - and what it means to be British - are in flux. This book looks at the new terrains, memories and myths of this contemporary landscape through the eyes of some of the world's most exciting photographers. 

My thoughts about the book

The book, written by Rosalind Jana, an arts and culture writer based in London, starts with an interesting and insightful introduction, exploring the deeper meaning of photographing the British landscape. Referring to some of the projects that feature in the book, Rosalind talks about the many connections and motivations that inspire their creation, such as childhood memories, political context, and even those who simply want to represent the subject as a visual point of interest.

After the introduction, the first of the 24 projects begins, each one paired with a short piece of writing that adds a bit of context to the photos that follow. All the featured projects were shot within the last 20 years, making this book a contemporary, 21st-century snapshot of the British landscape.

Each project in the book tells a unique story — from the way humans shape the landscape and how natural and man-made elements interact, to a series of abstract cyanotype prints made along the Dumfriesshire coast. There’s a collection focused on seaside holiday resorts, and another featuring powerful portraits of female farmers working the land in Scotland. And that’s just scratching the surface. This book takes you on a photographic journey across Britain, weaving together stories of art, beauty, history, and politics.

If you’re someone who prefers a more traditionally picturesque view of the landscape, this book might not resonate as much as some of the others I’ve shared in the Photo Bookshelf series — and that’s totally okay. But if, like me, you’re drawn to the variety of projects, the stories behind them, and the motivations that drive them, then I’d definitely recommend picking up a copy for yourself.

Hoxton Mini Press is an independent book publisher based in London. Although this was the first book of theirs I purchased, I’ve since spent countless hours exploring their extensive catalogue. The book has a traditional, high-quality feel, and the combination of compelling writing and striking imagery made it an incredibly enjoyable read.

Book Details

Until next time.

Trevor

Trevor Sherwin
Next

Seascapes by Nigel Danson | My Photo Bookshelf