Isle Of Dogs Research
The theme of our exhibition is 'Connect' and our group were given Isle of Dogs as our location. To begin with, we all individually researched the area and then created mind maps, brainstorming our possible ideas and locations that we can shoot at. We then came to a conclusion that as a group we will be focusing on how each places within the area brings the community together.
First Reccie Trip:
On 4th October we took a trip to the Bowling club, located at Ferry Road, Isle of Dogs. Being opened for more than 100 years, this location has great history, which would've allowed us to show the connection between the people and their environment. Unfortunately we didn't get the chance to enter the club but did leave a letter, which they kindly got back to. Sadly, we were told the bowling season was over.
Second Reccie Trip:
We then visited the Blackwall Basin, on the 8th October, hoping to get in touch with some of the residents on the boat. At the time, the Blackwall Basin was the first non-tidal dock entrance, but is now known as a 'Barge Village'. This place would've allowed us to explore the history of the location and also the permanent residents themselves. We had no luck to get in contact as it was all gated off but again left a letter hoping they'll get back to us. Later we tried contacting the manager but unfortunately had no response.
Third Reccie Trip:
Another idea of ours was to photograph at a performing arts theatre, known as 'The Space', which is located on Westferry Rd, Isle of Dogs. We scheduled a meeting on the 23rd October with the theatre manager, who then gave us more background knowledge of the place itself. They are a registered charity, who supports and welcomes the local residents, allowing new artists to develop their creativity. For this shoot we wanted to capture the performers in action and to show the colour and lightings used to create the atmosphere.
Fourth Reccie Trip:
While in the area we explored around the Millwall park, the Mudchute Park and Farm. The Millwall park provides a variety of facilities for the locals to use and also a space to get away from the city scene. Similarly, the Mudchute Park and Farm has many paths that provide openings to nature and calmness. For this project I wanted to capture the naturalism of our location and this area fits right with my ideas.
