Projects

12th July – The Battle of the Boyne and Its Legacy

The 12th of July marks the anniversary of the Battle of the Boyne, fought in 1690 between Catholic King James II and Protestant King William of Orange. King William’s victory became a defining moment in Irish and British history, particularly for Protestants in Northern Ireland, who commemorate the day with parades and marches.

Known as “The Twelfth”, it is a day of cultural celebration for the Orange Order and many in the Unionist community. However, for others — especially in Nationalist and Catholic communities — it can be a reminder of division and historical conflict.

Thatcher was pushing her Poll Tax which everybody hated. There was a huge crowd that had gathered in London. It was very messy. I will never forget one of the police vans being attacked, I found it really exciting, but also very scary. I didn’t get hurt, thank God.

Sheriff Street was a flat complex right in the heart of Dublin. Over the years it declined, and became a no-go place for a lot of people. I was able to shoot in the area with no real problems because I knew a few people who lived there.

I moved to Paris in 1991. I never owned a car so the bus became my mode of transport. I loved the way images just flew past. After washing dishes in the Canteen des Ecoles, I’d hop on a bus home and more often than not I’d have my camera with me.

I don’t think of my landscapes as beautiful. I’m not chasing golden hour or perfect light. That kind of beauty feels too easy.
I try to see landscapes everywhere, in any light. Midday, grey skies, rain—none of it stops the world from being interesting. Waiting for the “right” light feels like creative suicide.
I’m after something else—something raw, honest, maybe even uncomfortable.