This exhibition brings together images by members of Sidmouth Photographic Club, the town’s independent club for photographers at every stage of their photographic journey.

From February to May this year, the “Seeing Sid” project encouraged both emerging and established club members to explore and capture aspects of the Sid Valley that resonated with them personally, and to express how they see and appreciate the places they know well. The photographs were taken within the area bounded by the Sid Valley Ring footpath and its surroundings - from the river and its wooded valleys to the cliffs, coastline and quieter corners of the town. 

This collection of images showcases a wide spectrum of perspectives and ways of seeing Sidmouth and the Sid Valley.  Some images capture familiar views, others passing moments, hidden gems or changing light, together revealing the many ways people experience our valley and so defining our collective “sense of place”.

Founded in 1937 and approaching its 90th anniversary, Sidmouth Photographic Club brings together people who share a passion for photography. It welcomes photographers of all abilities, from complete beginners to experienced image-makers, using everything from smartphones to specialist camera equipment.

Whether visitors know Sidmouth well or are seeing it for the first time, these images offer an enjoyable glimpse of the Sid Valley through the eyes of those who live here.

Sidmouth School of Art driven by its mission to increase participation in arts and culture through  making Sidmouth the artwork and Sidmouth people – the artists, is delighted to partner with SPC for this project.

The Seeing Sid project is a shining example of an important local group who share a passion and who nurture the incredible talent in our town.  Working with them to bring fresh perspectives on this incredible place-based project is an example of Sidmouth School of Art’s ethos. The Riverside Artspace is an important cultural space that serves to inspire projects, artwork and people to be part of the everyday landscape. 

Sidmouth School of Art’s Louise Cole said “We are incredibly proud of our rolling programme of very diverse exhibitions in this free outdoor gallery.  We see people of all ages, locals and visitors, taking a look, wandering through, we have so many conversations with people whose curiosity is sparked here.   We know the evidence is that people’s connection to viewing and creating art is a pathway to wellbeing, it connects emotionally and fosters a sense of belonging to place and community.“

Karen Brindley, Chairperson of Sidmouth Photographic Club said “Our club is delighted to be involved in another collaboration with the Sidmouth School of Art. Our photographers hope that Sidmouth residents and visitors alike will enjoy looking at our photos as much as they have enjoyed making them; these images remind us all how fortunate we are to live in such a beautiful part of the country.  SPC would also like to thank our co-sponsors who made this exhibition possible.”

The exhibition is now showing and will be run until November – giving visitors across the high summer season a wonderful insight to sweet spots that present Sidmouth’s natural and cultural heritage to bring fresh perspective.

Viewers can also view the exhibition digitally and find out more about the project here

Seeing Sid | Sidmouth School Of Art

Sidmouth Photographic Club will be hosting two pop-up “meet the photographers” events at the Riverside Artspace on Saturday 15 August and Saturday 29 August between 10:00 and 15:00.

The project is joint funded by Sidmouth Town Council, Sidmouth Photographic Club, Igntye Ltd, Devon County Council – via Denise Bickley’s Locality Fund and Sidmouth School of Art. 

 

Supporting Art and Culture in the community…

Follow Sidmouth School of Art on Facebook and Instagram @sidmouthschool_art for updates.

Donations to support Sidmouth School of Arts work can be made via SSA’s website Donate | Sidmouth School Of Art (sidmouthart.org).

Sidmouth School of Art is about creativity and wellbeing through art and culture. Co-founder David Shrigley, OBE: “Art is about discovering what something means to you and expressing what you think and feel.”