John Arnison

After more than two years of working collaboratively with partners the Ryevitalise Landscape Partnership Project; the National Trust; and the Howardian Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty John is presenting work inspired by the River Rye. This open studio follows on from the Cause and Effect exhibition shown at Nunnington Hall in 2021.

 

At the age of 10 I was diagnosed with severe dyslexia; this explained a lot to me because I was getting increasingly frustrated with school. At around the same time my dad bought me a Kodak camera and I started to use it as a way of explaining the world. As a professional photographer I have met people from all walks of life. 

 

It is the whole process of photography that I love, the journey from taking the photography to crafting and printing the image in the dark room.

 

Being involved with the partners, being shown features of the river, learning more about the River Rye has broadened my knowledge and appreciation of rivers. I hope my images not only capture the beauty of water in motion but also evoke the sense of awe we feel in its presence.

 

Photography is a very solo occupation, especially taking photos at night so I’ve also loved the sense of community being in a collaboration has brought. I’ve met some really interesting people and my work includes portraits of oral histories participants; people whose lives are directly connected to the river, photographing them within their immediate environment.  

 

This Open Studio is being supported by the partners listed above as well as Hovingham Hall and includes information and maps of the River Rye catchment and Ryedale area.  

 

‘Ryevitalise aims to conserve, enhance and restore the natural and cultural heritage of the River Rye and its tributaries, and to reconnect people with the area’s history, wildlife and landscapes. Supported by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, and partners, Ryevitalise works to energise local communities and volunteers, support farmers, and welcome visitors from near and far.’