Archival pigment print 2018
My exploration of the Scottish Highlands wasn't your typical tourist trip. I wielded a unique tool: a panoramic camera favoured by a celebrated Japanese-American artist who left an indelible mark on Dutch art. This artist had used it extensively to capture the imposing Berlin Wall, a symbol of Cold War division. His sweeping photographs emphasized the Wall's seemingly endless sprawl, a stark reminder of its oppressive presence.
For me, photography wasn't just about capturing what was visible. It was about revealing the hidden stories woven into the landscape itself. Inspired by this philosophy, I decided to push the boundaries of the panoramic format. Drawing influence from the tall, vertical format of traditional Japanese hanging scrolls (Kakejiku), I turned the camera in the portrait position. This approach created works that deliberately contrasted with the original artist's perspective.
The legendary Loch Ness Monster, a creature of myth rather than reality, became a fitting subject for my exploration. As I delved deeper, photographing tourist attractions or modern-day monster hunters, a different truth emerged: the raw beauty of the Highlands itself was the most captivating element.
My journey became a pursuit to capture the unseen essence of this place. I aimed to transcend the physical landscape and delve into the intangible stories and emotions that permeated this extraordinary land. It was a quest to uncover the soul of a region steeped in myth, mystery, and an enduring connection to nature.
This series was made possible by the PS Camera Project and the generous loan of the camera from the Shinkichi Tajiri Estate.
