Our recently opened Alternative Process exhibition got off to a great start at the Private View, featuring some really creative and innovative photography by artists working with Polaroid Lift, Wet Plate Collodion, Gum Bichromate, Photogram, Pinhole, Mordançage, Photogravure, Cyanotype and more. The show has prompted questions from visitors about the processes involved and the stories behind the works, so we thought it would be a good idea to meet the artists individually to find out more by way of some short interviews. Our third interviewee in the series is Charlotte Davenport…

Who are you and what do you do?

I am a documentary based photographer who is new to alternative processes, but loving every minute I spend exploring both alternative and historical processes. In addition to my personal practice I am currently a trainee photography teacher at Bradford Film School, teaching level three photography students.

What did you exhibit?

The photograph titled “Tree” which is being exhibited as part of the Shutter Hub Alternative Process exhibition uses the wet plate collodion processes on an aluminium plate. This is a one off, original piece and part of an on going series based around the environmental issue of fly tipping.

What made you take part in this exhibition?

I wanted to be part of this exhibition as I was familiar with Shutter Hub and the quality of work they represent. I also wanted to meet other practitioners who practice alternative processes, which I have.

Have you attended the exhibition in person and if so what did you think?

I was fortunate enough to attend the opening night of the exhibition in person and it was great to see the exhibition was so well attended with so much support for the exhibition, as well as genuine interest to the processes the exhibitors have used.

Other than your own work, which of the other works in the show appealed to you and why?

All of the work is of such a high quality and brilliantly unique so I found all of it interesting and aesthetically pleasing. However, there was one piece which really got my attention this was one of John Kiely's, I found the composition of the model was so strong and had an iconic look which was eye catching, this was enhanced by how John Kiely had chosen to frame his glass plate on top the black fabric.

You can see the exhibition for yourself until Sun 7th December 2014, Saturday and Sunday 10am – 6pm at The Engine Room, Mill 1, Woodend Mills, Manchester Rd, Mossley, Ashton under Lyne, Lancs, OL5 9RR.(Viewing by appointment during the exhibition, contact John at The Engine Room on 07736 849 388) For further information about the exhibition and the other exhibitors see our previous post here.

You can find out more about Charlotte Davenport's work at her website here. Look out for more interviews with our Alternative Process contributors over the course of the exhibition!