Some small, grey rocks in the sea. In the background is a tall wooden pole structure and some wind turbines in the far distance.

Mini photo project: hippo rocks and spontaneous brick art at the beach

I don’t have all the words today as I’m tired, but it’s been a couple of months since I last wrote to you, so I’ll try my best. Firstly, a quick update. My trip to the Garstang Museum last month was definitely a success (hooray!). I photographed the sphinx amulet, bringing home several different images….

header image for the photographing egyptology blog post

Photography genesis: a portrait of Hathor

It’s not uncommon for people to find solace in creativity when dealing with difficult times in their lives. For me, photography was what helped me cope during a difficult period in my life. In 2015, I was diagnosed with Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS), a disease which leaves me exhausted and unable to do many things I’d previously taken for granted.

I found relief through photography when I started to really explore this art form in the months following my diagnosis.

Nazir Tanbouli, Egyptian artist, at Liverpool Arab Arts Festival

Nazir Tanbouli, Egyptian artist, at Liverpool Arab Arts Festival

If I asked you to imagine a day at a city-centre cultural festival, what would pop into your mind? Music? Crowds? Food? Dancing? An all-round sensory hit of sight, sound, smells and taste?

Probably. I would.

But not, perhaps, a feeling of peace, of quiet, of meditation and of mindfulness.

When I photographed the 2016 Liverpool Arab Arts Festival, it was a feast for the senses. But, for all the colour and music and dancing and food, it was one of the quieter artists who stood out for me: Nazir Tanbouli.