Cloaked Figures by Stephen Hyatt-Cross (Collated Observations 17)
Collated Observations is a series of regular photozines showcasing aspects of modern life through the lens of a different UK-based photographer each issue.
Stephen Hyatt-Cross is an artist and photographer based in Lowestoft, Suffolk and has a BA in Fine Art. His paintings and photography have been widely exhibited throughout East Anglia including at Norwich Arts Centre.
Cloaked Figures
"Pakefield is a village on the Suffolk coast south of Lowestoft. On the beach there are about twenty fishing boats and a similar number of winches. Much of this fishing gear is derelict and permanently covered with tarpaulins, though some of it is still used. The few boats that go out to sea are launched directly from the beach. As they return they are hauled back to their resting places above the high tide line with the aid of an old still functioning motorised winch. A couple of men complete the task between them. It’s an activity that’s been going on for many years now but, like the decaying equipment, it’s a way of life that’s passing.
These photographs capture the boats and winches at a moment in time, a kind of preservation against further change and decay. The social change associated with the decaying gear though is not obvious in these images. Instead there is an element of the fantastic in the work, something otherworldly, that verges on the surreal, where it’s possible to see the littoral forms in the photographs as substitutes for a human presence. Cloaked figures, heroically facing out to sea, facing up to storms and floods. Small groups huddled together on the ground, forlorn, hooded and trussed. Ghosts. Visitants from the past. Boats, winches, tarpaulins, in a sea change of photographic exploration"
Limited run of 100 hand numbered copies.
210mm x 210mm.
40 pages cover to cover, perfect bound.
170 gsm silk paper, 300 gsm cover with matt laminate.
Published: July 31st 2021
Sleeves: Regular collectors will be aware supply our zines in protective plastic foils. We've received some feedback indicating that these aren't always wanted, so to avoid adding unnecessary waste to landfill the sleeve will now be optional. The price will remain the same for both options, but please only select it if you plan to retain it. Thank you.
