This project came about back in 2000, after one of my tutors at Bradford College mentioned something in conversation about photographing "The flowers of Pachendale". So I started this project for the final assignment of my Higher National Diploma (Design) Photography course.
I placed an advert in the local media requesting the loan and use of certain items of war memorabilia. I had an excellent response and I was loaned: photographs, medals, the rear wheel of a spitfire, a gas rattle, helmet, ammunition boxes and many other useful items.
After doing detailed research into the history of specific species of flowers and their link with the act of remembrance. I constructed a wooden base for use as a sandpit. The relevant materials were purchased and I used the studio facilities at Hull Community Artworks (a local community arts resource centre).
After deciding upon and drawing up a list of flowers that I knew I could purchase locally. I set about photographing these selected flowers alongside the various loaned items in the sandpit. The sandpit was meant to represent the sands of beaches where allied troops landed, such as Normandy and Sicily etc.
I used the camera mounted on a tripod with two Courtenay brolly flash heads. The finished project then went on display at The Design Centre in Bradford, West Yorkshire, England. Other exhibition venues followed.
This project was very enjoyable and interesting to do and work upon. I learned a great deal about the link and symbolism between specific species of flowers and the act of remembrance. I also learned more about the practical side of studio photography.
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