Gemma Ryder

My work is inspired by the unlimited variety and exact structures found in the natural world. I am constantly discovering altered photographic techniques and skills to improve as a photographer. Alternative flowers were created using a flatbed scanner rather than a conventional digital camera or film. Modern technology is forever changing, and I feel we can often discard items for newer and better. The scanner, to me, represent time, something that we all once had and now, due to modern technology, have forgotten. I am always looking for a new perspective to view the world around us and share my experience with others.

My project aimed to research and explore my passion for trees, light and colour, inspired by my childhood. Trees are a visual emblem for nature, a source of life and wisdom. They evoke a primal sense of wonder and mystery, which has been a popular subject for artists and photographers, but why? Why are we fascinated by their wonder?

For me, my fascination began when I was younger and one which has stayed with me ever since. Light helps us to see colour and colour creates a depth of tones and atmospheric effects. I am investigating how light and colour affect what we see and feel. Creating a project during a global pandemic as helped me to appreciate my local surroundings and see trees in a new perspective.

Also, producing the project has been an outlet for me to express how I was feeling. I believe, we all need hope and reassurance in such changing time and Trees are the perfect representation to symbolize community and strength. Iridescence Trees is a message that we need to work together in a time of uncertainly. Trees can be a subject on their own or within the landscape or even in relationship to urban settings. As living things, they also mirror our character and moods and exist like us as both individuals and in communities. Trees are a part of our past, present and future.

My FMF project is called: The Art in Nature, Land Sea and Sky, which explores the Art within the Landscape to create an emotional attachment and appreciation to the environment around you.

Nature is an element which is both all around us, and deep within us, we are deeply connected to life both physically and mentally. The secure connection between Art and Nature has existed since early humans illustrated their first drawings onto the walls within caves. As a muse, Mother Nature could not possibly be more inspirational. In my photographs, I try and capture the light within the scenery to create drama and an emotional connection. The light within the Landscape is an aspect that can define both time and emotions. As an Art and Photography Teacher, both subjects are essential to me, and I cannot help but view the world around me in a different light. The collection of photographs I have taken for my Final Major Project are a personal investigation that investigates the relationship between Art and Nature using the land, sea and sky for inspiration. The decision to study MA Photography was to help me rebuild and develop as a person and as well as a photographer. I am passionate about teaching and learning, and one of my main goals is to encourage others to be creative and explore the world around them. I do class myself very fortunate that the area in which I live in is both urban and countryside. The Kent County is in the South East and is the home to many beautiful locations, and I hope my project, The Art in Nature, Land Sea and Sky demonstrates my love for nature and encourages others to go outside and explore.

Metallic Nature collection has been inspired by the natural element of metal and the relationship of nature and man-made. The use of metals for making cast sculpture is very ancient and by tradition a sculptural medium. I have used organic forms to create natural sculptures to highlight the natural beauty around us, as well as exploring the sunning colours of metals.

I am a believer that we can all learn from nature and nature can teach us how to cope in situations and give us strength if we only stop, look and listen. The leaf is a symbol of fertility, growth, and death. Leaves are the primary way that most plants get their energy and they also create a blanket of projection for other wildlife and plants. On the other hand, when the leaves fall, they symbolize death and sadness. While the leaves may fall, wither and die they enrich the soil for the next generation, the leaves become a part of a cycle where death is no longer the end but just another stage on a cyclical journey.

Water is forever flowing and we are automatically drawn to it. A sort of power that has a mysterious hold on us. A force that can bring life or destruction, my Liquid Art aims to capture your attention and appreciate its beauty.