HIDDEN CONTRADICTIONS
2024
In continuation of his previously made personal documentary work, Hidden Contradictions focuses on the harmonious yet often paradoxical relationship between Man and the natural world. The Alpine sublimity of Chamonix or the cultural nuances of French style, a timeless sense is perpetuated through the interflow of both Analogue and Digital technologies.
Through conceptual research and experimentation, Dan has sought to make images which highlight the very intricacies of silent conversations, the enduring power of nature and its inherent capacity to hold those who exploit it accountable. The viewer is encouraged to look beyond the sublime, to recognise the impact that we, as human beings have upon changing the world’s landscapes.
TRACES OF THE TOURIST
2023
Traces of the Tourist is a landscape documentary project which seeks to define the complex relationship between the natural world and the impact of human nature. This issue is often characterized as a finely balanced equilibrium, bringing light to the ever-present issues which have the potential to quickly decline. Dan Johnson explores the implications of the tourist amongst the Peak District National Park, one of Britain's most visited geological landscapes.
Captured through a mixture of aerial and ground-based imagery, the images within the sequence depict the two attributes, simultaneously present within the modern day. Opting for a timeless feel, the photographs within the series offer simple yet unique compositions highlighting both the marvel of nature and its potential demise due to the impact of man. Each scene stands alone, and when combined, presents a narrative, documenting the trials and tribulations that the unique national parks of the UK, are exposed to daily. Dan seeks to incorporate all these aforementioned attributes of ‘Traces of the Tourist’ into a final considered body of work.
Début de l'été
2023
Début de l’été, a photographic project by Dan Johnson, captures the essence of the French countryside as it awakens from the spring slumber and embraces the warmth of the early summer sun. The series is an ode to nostalgia, evoking memories of childhood summers spent exploring the verdant landscapes and vibrant villages of France.
The project title, Début de l’été or 'The Beginning of Summer', seeks to encapsulate the authentic feel of the French countryside, presenting a snapshot into the timeless serenity which rural France bountifully offers.
Suburban Borders
2023
'Suburban Borders' builds upon Dan's connection with the outdoors and is deeply rooted in his personal identity and belonging. Growing up a short distance away from the Yorkshire Dales, the miles of endless footpaths were a constant presence in his life. He would spend hours exploring the countryside, marvelling at the beauty of the natural world.
Only after moving to Manchester did Dan realize the extent of change that a landscape goes through whilst nearing an urban environment. The city of Manchester is a sprawling metropolis, and the countryside quickly gives way to concrete and steel.
In the Kinetic Being exhibition, Dan documents this progression through the image The Space Inbetween. This image is part of a series that challenges perspective, interpretation, and the very nature of urbanity.
The Space Inbetween is a powerful and thought-provoking image that explores the relationship between the natural world and the built environment - a contemporary view into the balancing act which is urban life.
Only after moving to Manchester did Dan realize the extent of change that a landscape goes through whilst nearing an urban environment. The city of Manchester is a sprawling metropolis, and the countryside quickly gives way to concrete and steel.
In the Kinetic Being exhibition, Dan documents this progression through the image The Space Inbetween. This image is part of a series that challenges perspective, interpretation, and the very nature of urbanity.
The Space Inbetween is a powerful and thought-provoking image that explores the relationship between the natural world and the built environment - a contemporary view into the balancing act which is urban life.
