Memories Sewn Into Photographs

Naomi James, a photographic artist based in South London, began her career by participating in numerous group shows and receiving recognition at the Fix Photo Awards. She recently completed her MA in Photography at the University of Brighton, further solidifying her skills in the field.

What inspired the exhibition? The exhibition, Misadventure, was inspired by Naomi James' memories of her brother, Simon, who died in 1985, with his death being legally recorded as 'death by misadventure'. This term, implying risk with an unintentional conclusion, is reflected in the theme and photographic processes used in the project.

How are the photographs created? Naomi James combines objects, materials, and colours that provoke recollections of her brother to make a photograph using a cyanotype process, which mirrors the fragility and transience of her memories. She then sews through this image, using thread the same colour as the shirt Simon wore the last time she saw him, creating a metaphor for the contradictory feelings of wounding, healing, absence, and presence.

Who is behind the exhibition? The In Between Gallery, where the exhibition will take place, is produced in partnership with Photo Fringe, Spectrum Photographic, POST, and Jane & Jeremy. The exhibition will be on display from Friday, 8 January 2027, until Thursday, 15 April 2027, at Fabrica in Brighton, and tickets are with the button beside the article.