Ryan Free – High Culture

High Culture

High Culture is based around the photographic documentation of the social landscape of artists inside Cheltenham’s creative community, with a concentrated focus on the Hip Hop genre.

My journey started when I came across a group of Hip Hop artists graffitiing the Honeybourne Line tunnels, where they also had a BBQ and ended the day with a rap battle in the path. Having been welcomed with open arms, I threw myself into this scene. That day I photographed because it was meaningful and I was able to relate to these people. I think it’s become a recognition of lifestyle: skateboarding, graffitiing and simply chilling within the group dynamic was what attracted my attention. I could look at them and understand. Since that day, almost three years ago, I have had the opportunity to attend many performances in local bars, festivals, private events inside of homes and many other events, opening up access to a platform which is thriving with inspiring new artists. In turn, I document this journey and my photographs are the product of meeting, working with and believing in these individuals.

They have taught me the importance of articulating language verbally, which is what I think Hip Hop is about, the ‘The Intelligent Movement’, as said by KRS ONE, that orders the world through language. I have adapted this pattern and translated it visually through the documentation and production of contact sheets and analogue prints. The work is also being articulated into a photobook which represents the reality of this landscape, with close attention the design of the physicality of it to reflect the archival nature of my work and its relation to music. I hope to exhibit this work further, focusing on the community within Cheltenham in order to engage directly with individuals and see their responses.

Websiteryanfreephotography.co.ukInstagramwww.instagram.comYear2019