Sargassum
My experiences at sea, entwined with seafaring myths and mysteries surrounding seaweed, inspired me in the creation of this series of work. Having transited the Atlantic Ocean and the Sargasso Sea on more than one occasion, I have experienced large areas of the sea, carpeted with seaweed. Floating on the surface, the seaweed moves as if it is a living creature. Continually changing shape under the power of the sea and in unison with the waves. As if it is the seas second skin, from which other… Read More...
My experiences at sea, entwined with seafaring myths and mysteries surrounding seaweed, inspired me in the creation of this series of work. Having transited the Atlantic Ocean and the Sargasso Sea on more than one occasion, I have experienced large areas of the sea, carpeted with seaweed. Floating on the surface, the seaweed moves as if it is a living creature. Continually changing shape under the power of the sea and in unison with the waves. As if it is the seas second skin, from which other worldly creatures will emerge. The Sargasso Sea is often painted as an area of mystery, as its boundaries are closely tied to those of the Bermuda triangle and the myths associated with this region of the North Atlantic. Christopher Columbus wrote at length in his diary about how he feared the Sargasso Sea because of its blankets of seaweed. He believed that it was covering shallows and coral reefs. Whilst Captain Nemo, travelled the area in the Nautilus, submerged, to avoid becoming ensnarled in the Sargassum. My time at sea was an incredible period of my life, travelling across the oceans. A unique and unforgettable experience, with the opportunity to visit far flung ports and experience and witness incredible views. Everyday brought its own adventure and challenge, whether this be exploring a distant port or navigating a safe passage with the ever-changing weather patterns. I remember my first transatlantic crossing aboard the bulk carrier, Fort Norman. A hurricane crossed our track, bringing with it turbulent and mountainous seas, strong winds and heavy rainfall. I remember being excited as the waves crashed over the foredeck. As I held on to the ships railing to steady myself, before taking the next photograph. Willing the next wave to be bigger and bigger. The fearlessness and innocence of youth. Whilst that evening the Captain issued the order for all aboard to sleep with their lifejackets at the ready, at the end of their bunks. Memories of that Atlantic crossing are as vivid today as they were forty years ago. The violent pitching and rolling of the ship in the swell and confused seas. The sound of the engines screaming and the cavitation from the propeller racing as the stern pitches clear of the sea. The air heavy with rain, sea spray and flume. These memories have inspired me to create these images of sea monsters and strange other worldly creatures. Safe in the knowledge that your feet are on dry land, I encourage you to explore each creation and share what do you see? 38°15’N 37°48’W 13th March 1981
