What is 'behind the barriers'???

As part of the 'No Barriers' project we've commissioned artist and photographer Tim Johnson to take a look 'behind the barriers'. Over the past couple of months Tim has been exploring the special qualities of a 'no go zone', a large plot of land left behind for nature to re-colonise, before the re-development of East Cowes claims it back.

Tim comments:
"I'm fascinated by the way nature is creeping back over the relics and remains of human habitation and industry. Although I'm a resident of Cowes I don't know the area contained before its transformation - so I'm coming with fresh eyes wondering what the rubble and remains once were. Garden steps up to missing conservatories, park benches with no one to sit and car parks empty of vehicles forever.

Scrambling native brambles collaborate with escaping garden roses against a backdrop of crushed rubble and cracked paving. Wild Carrot and Lamb's Ears decorate a miniature roundabout - the floral combinations presenting a curious botanical landscape speaking of its own history."

After working digitally for several years Tim has returned to using film for this project. Using a recently acquired medium format camera Tim is enjoying the slowness of the activitiy and the concentration and focus required.

Tim's photographs will be presented to the public on the Barriers revealing the hidden contained landscapes. To find out more about Tim Johnson's work visit: http://www.flickr.com/photos/timstring/collections/