Inspirational local images to feature in Landscape Photographer of the Year exhibition (Sept 2014)
This autumn’s Landscape Photographer of the Year exhibition at Moors Valley Country Park and Forest, near Ringwood will feature six award-winning and commended Dorset images alongside around 100 images of stunning countryside from all over Great Britain.
Running from 11 October until 23 November, visitors to the exhibition will be able to see the work of some of the best landscape photographers in the country free-of-charge, chosen from thousands of entrants to the national Take a view – Landscape Photographer of the Year competition.
Alongside other inspirational local images, the exhibition includes a stunning shot of the Jurassic Coast taken by local teenager Jake Pike, which won the Youth Classic View category. Other commended and highly commended Dorset images include photographs of the iconic Corfe Castle, Southbourne Beach, Parkstone and a glorious shot of Sturminster Newton Mill reflecting in to the River Stour taken by Mark Simpson.
As well as exhibiting his image, Mark will be presenting an illustrated talk about his photographs at Moors Valley from 7pm on 10 October, at the official opening of the exhibition. A limited number of tickets at £5 are now available. Before becoming a landscape photographer he spent 15 years covering professional motorsport and his talk will cover his photographic journey from the roar of the engine to the serenity of the landscape world. Whilst the two types of images appeal to very different audiences Mark is quick to point out the things they have in common, including making the best of the light and location scouting. Now a committed landscape photographer his work has appeared in national magazines including BBC Countryfile.
The Landscape Photographer of the Year competition was founded by renowned landscape photographer, Dorset-based Charlie Waite and Moors Valley is one of the few places outside London where it is possible to see the exhibition. The competition has played a pivotal role in regenerating interest in landscape photography in recent years and 2014’s winners will be announced later this year. “You’re never short of inspiration when you explore the endless variety of landscapes found in our wonderful islands,” said Charlie. “And there is joy to be had in photographing these landscapes”.
Moors Valley’s Countryside Interpretation Ranger, Katie Davies echoes his views. “The exhibition has become a highlight of our annual calendar and we know it brings joy to our visitors as the winter days approach,” she said. “We are especially delighted that so many of this year’s photographs depict local scenes and can now be viewed here in Dorset by people who know and love the area.”
Previously shown at the National Theatre in London, the Take a view Landscape Photographer of the Year exhibition opens on 11 October and can be seen until 23 November from 9am to 5pm. Admission is free although parking charges do apply. For more information on the exhibition and tickets to the preview, which cost £5, call 01425 470721 or visit www.moors-valley.co.uk and book online.
ENDS
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Editors’ Notes:
Photography:
Please see the images pdf of local and winning images which are all available in high res. Please mail your requirements to Amanda@phoenix-2.co.uk or call 01725 512200. Please also ensure you meet the competition’s credit requirements as stated on the pdf.