RESULTS

PhotographySurveyWales 2020–Results 1 Published by Ffoton 11 December 2020

©2020 Photography Survey Wales 2020 by Ffoton is licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 4.0 To view a copy of this license, visithttps ://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0

Download this survey document at: www.ffoton.wales/survey2020

2 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results RESULTS

PhotographySurveyWales 2020–Results 3 4 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results Contents

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1. INTRODUCTION...... 7

PHOTOGRAPHY SURVEY WALES 2020 - RESULTS

2.PHOTOGRAPHYANDYOU...... 8 2.1WhereinWalesareyoubased?...... 9 2.2Intermsofphotography,howwouldyouidentifyyourself?...... 12 2.3Intermsofphotography,whatisthemostimportantaspecttoyou?...... 14 2.4Whatisyourfavouritewaytoaccessphotography?...... 16 2.5Iftheopportunityarose,wouldyouworkonaphotographyprojectinWaleswithothers?...... 24 2.6Areyouamemberofaphotographygroup,club,associationorsociety?(informaland/orformal)...... 36 3.PHOTOGRAPHYINWALESNOW...... 40 3.1IntermsoftheonlinephotographyofferinWales,whatisyourfavouritefeature? ...... 42 3.2IntermsofphotographyexhibitionsinWales,whatisyourfavouritefeature? ...... 50 3.3IntermsofcurrentphotographyfestivalsinWales,whatformatdoyoupreferandwouldconsiderpayingfor?...... 60 3.4IntermsoffundedphotographyspacesinWales,whichofthefollowinginyouropinionofferthebestvalueandvisitingexperience?...... 66 4.PHOTOGRAPHYINWALESGOINGFORWARD ...... 72 4.1IntermsofphotographyexhibitionsinWales,whatwouldyoupreferandconsiderpayingfor?...... 74 4.2IntermsofphotographypublicationsrelatingtoWales,whichareyourfavouritesandconsiderpaying/subscribingfor? ...... 76 4.3IntermsofphotographyworkshopsinWales,whichwouldyoupreferandconsiderpayingfor? ...... 78 4.4IntermsofphotographersmeetinginWales,whatwouldbeyourpreference?...... 82 4.5IntermsoforganisingphotographyactivityinWales,whatwouldbeyourpreferredorganisationtoundertakeit?...... 86 4.6IntermsoffundingphotographyactivityinWales,whatwouldbeyourpreference?...... 96 4.7IntermsofphotographyactivityinWalesdoyouagree/disagreewiththefollowing?...... 102 4.8Whatwouldbetheonethingyou'dsuggestthatwouldhelpdevelopthephotographycommunityinWalesinthefuture? ...... 110

5.Appendix...... 118 PhotographySurveyWales2020-fullIntroductionwordingasitappearedonline...... 119 Photographygroups&organisationsinWales(activeattimeofSurvey) ...... 120

PhotographySurveyWales 2020–Results 5 1. Introduction

6 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 1. Introduction

Background & Objectives ThePhotography Survey Wales 2020 ran 15 February - 30 June 2020 (inclusive) and was open to anyone with an interest in photography in Wales. It was conceived and delivered by FfotonW ales - an independent website and Podcast promoting talented photographers from across Wales since 2014. Promoted on the Ffoton website, various social media platforms and made available via an interactive Google Form, this online survey sought to create a ‘snapshot’ of current opinion on photography activity across Wales and gather comments and suggestions on any areas that might be improved. We believe this to be the first photography survey of its kind ever undertaken in Wales: open to all and unaffiliated with any commercial or formal organisation or body.

The opening introduction1 to the survey clearly stated all contributions would be treated anonymously as we wanted anyone with an interest in photography to feel they could provide honest feedback and air their views in confidence. Whilst an email address was required, this was only used as a basic means of flagging any obvious attempts to submit fake or duplicate entries. Several (fewer than ten) such responses were indeed submitted over the duration of the survey and subsequently removed. The201 remaining responses from what we believe to be authentic email accounts are included in these results. Ffoton founders did not participate in the survey. Comments by respondents have been included unedited - the only few adjustments have been to ‘tweak’ for profanity or disguise personal information submitted. Structured with an Introduction and three main sections, the survey sought to gain insight and views on the following:

Photography and You - geographic location of respondents; their current interest in photography; aspects most important to them; their favourite way to access photography; and their preferred skillset if working collaboratively.

Photography in Wales now - preferred online engagement; preferred exhibition types; preferred photography Festivals organised in recent years in Wales and preferred photography-specific spaces receiving funding in terms of best value and visiting experience offered.

Photography in Wales going forward - any preferred new exhibition types/locations; preferred publications, workshops and meeting formats; preferred organisation to organise and deliver photography activity in Wales; any preference on how photography activity is funded; and views on photography activity, funding, 1. Introduction opportunities and strategy going forward. A final question invited respondents to suggest what would help develop the wider photography community in Wales in the future. In common with many other Ffoton activities, this survey neither sought nor received funding. We would like to express our thanks to the photographers who contributed valuable ideas to early discussions around the themes and questions the survey should cover. Special thanks go to photographers Brian David Stevens andEllie Hopkins who agreed to be independent observers (based in England and Scotland respectively) on the handling of anonymised data when the survey closed and accuracy of the visual representation of survey results data presented in this document. Finally, we would like to sincerely thank everyone who took the time to complete the survey and offer their feedback (warts and all) - particularly the insightful written comments and suggestions in the ‘other’ sections of several questions and, in particular, the final question. Ffoton has made these survey findings available under a Creative Commons license in the hope that all those with an interest or remit in furthering access to, engagement with and development of photography in and across Wales might reflect on and give due consideration to the views and suggestions of survey respondents.

Brian Carroll & Emyr Young Ffoton

1 Photography Survey Wales 2020 - online survey introduction page. SeeAppendix andwww.ffoton .wales/survey2020

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 7 2. Photography and You

8 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results Context Originally conceived to gather input from photographers based in Wales, the Photography Survey Wales 2020 when concluded had contributions from 2.1 across Wales, the wider UK and five International locations. Question 2.1 sought to establish the geographical spread of photographers and/or those expressing an interest in photography across Wales. To provide Where in Wales are you based? some regional granularity to location responses, we asked respondents to select from the twenty-two Unitary Authorities currently recognised in Wales.

An optional ‘other’ field allowed any respondents outside Wales to state their location.

Question 2.1 Results Summary

Within Wales, the highest number of respondents by area were located in: Cardiff (28%), followed by Carmarthenshire (12.4%); Rhondda Cynon Taf (6%) 2. Photography and You Twenty-five survey respondents: (12.4%) were located outside Wales

PhotographySurveyWales 2020–Results 9 2.1 Where in Wales are you based? Unitary Authority 201 responses Blaenau Gwent 2 1% Bridgend 8 4% Caerphilly 8 4% Cardiff 56 28% Carmarthenshire 25 12.4% Ceredigion 6 3% City of Newport 1 0.5% Conwy 7 3.4% CARDIFF Denbighshire 4 2% 28% Flintshire 2 1% Gwynedd 8 4% Isle of Anglesey 7 3.4% Merthyr Tydfil 0 - Monmouthshire 7 3.4% GWYNEDD 4% NeathPortTalbot 0 - 2.4% 1 BRIDGEND 4% Pembrokeshire 5 2.5% RHONDDA CYNON TAF 6% CAERPHILLY 4% Powys 8 4%

2.4% Rhondda Cynon Taf 12 6% 1 CARMARTHENSHIRE POWYS 4% Swansea 4 2% Torfaen 1 0.5% Vale of Glamorgan 4 2% Wrexham 1 0.5% OUTSIDE WALES Outside Wales 25 12.4% See 2.1.1 opposite

10 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.1.1 Not based in Wales - my town or city... 25 responses

12.4% OF RESPONDENTS (25 PEOPLE) WERE OUTSIDE WALES, COMPRISING:

48% 28% 20% 4%

Wider UK Bordering Wales International Anonymous

Bath Bristol Bologna, Italy Not provided Glasgow Cheltenham (2) India London (4) Forest of Dean Charlottesville, USA Malvern Hereford (2) Indiana, USA Manchester Shropshire Turin,Italy Nottingham Surrey Whitchurch Wiltshire

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 11 Context

Having established where survey respondents were located, Question 2.2 sought to get a feel for the variety of individual interests in photography as 2.2 numerous aptitudes and careers are now available in the medium/craft as both a creative industry and visual art form.

Six broad ‘photographer’ descriptions were offered for selection, in addition In terms of photography, to an optional ‘other’ field where respondents could describe their own interest or role in photography. how would you identify yourself? Question 2.2 Results Summary The highest number of respondents identified themselves as Photographer (24.9%); followed by Professional Photographer (21.9%); Amateur Photographer (17.4%)

12 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.2 In terms of photography, how would you identify yourself? Photographer 50 24.9%

Professional photographer 44 21.9%

Amateur photographer 35 17.4%

Photography enthusiast 23 11.4%

ARTIST Student 22 10.9% PHOTOGRAPHER 9% 24.9% Artist 18 9% STUDENT 10.9% other...

in the documentary tradition 1 0.5% PHOTOGRAPHY Professional & Artist 1 0.5% ENTHUSIAST all of the above 1 0.5% PROFESSIONAL 11.4% Visual arts consultant.Trustee. 1 0.5% PHOTOGRAPHER 21.9% Photo artist and Historian 1 0.5% AMATEUR Retired Lecturer/ Photography 1 0.5% PHOTOGRAPHER 17.4% Photography gallery owner 1 0.5% Photographic artist/Historian 1 0.5%

ex-photographer 1 0.5%

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 13 Context

Recognising photography can be accessed in a variety of ways for both professional and personal interests,Question 2.3 sought to discover the 2.3 most important aspect of photography to individual respondents. Again, six descriptions were offered for selection, along with an optional ‘other’ field where respondents could describe, in their own words, themost In terms of photography, important aspect of photography to them. what is the most important Question 2.3 Results Summary aspect to you? The highest number of respondents stated the most important aspect of photography to them was: Taking photographs (59.2%); followed by Showing photographs (11.4%); Receiving advice to improve (6.5%); Discussing photography (6%)

14 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.3 In terms of photography, Taking photographs 119 59.2% what is the most important aspect to you? Showing photographs 23 11.4%

Receiving advice to improve 13 6.5%

Discussing photography 12 6%

Looking at photographs by others 8 4% other... Receiving feedback about photographs 1 0.5%

All of the above(2 responses)

All of the above , cultural enhancement to a diverse audience

All of the above, since you don't allow multiple answers

Using photography to explore and crystalise my own ideas and feelings Currently, editing existing work

Taking and processing analogue images, experimentation Recording players history playing their sport

Being part of a like-minded supportive community That it pays the bills!

Discussing and taking photographs B & W darkroom printing of my own negatives, as well as camera technique

Learning the history of medium, exploring various genres to between understand and Sharing work and building supportive networks - across community setting appreciate what I am capturing Taking,looking, and discussing are all as important as the next, to me Producing good images for myself and others to use and enjoy Taking,showing photography, witnessing great work by others, telling photography stories Region Organiser South Wales Region Royal Photographic Society

Using alternative processes Generating Revenue

Making, not taking, photographs.Then sequencing as bodies of work TELLING STORIES

The use of photography as a universal language of reflection on the human condition Editing & reworking -Taking is often random and chaotic.The edit is the formation of the image

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 15 Context

The internet and digital technologies have, over the last thirty years, revolutionised the means by which photographs are made and the exhibition 2.4 and discovery of work from across the world. But ‘analogue’ interactions such as fibre prints, paper magazines, journals, walk-in galleries and events are still popular.Question 2.4 sought to discover just how popular and What is your favourite way which, if any, were preferred to access photography. Five categories were offered for selection, and respondents asked to score from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. to access photography? An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or describe their own preferred means of accessing photography.

Question 2.4 Results Summary

By adding the scores in the 6 - 10 range in each category, the summary results are as follows: Photography Books 83.1% Exhibitions 83% Online 76.2% Events, Meeting & Talks 71.5% Journals & Magazines 64.2%

16 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.4 What is your favourite way to access photography? 2.4.1 ONLINE

7% 0.5% 2.5% 3% 10.9% 8.5% 18.4% 21.9% 7.5% 19.9% 60 14 1 56 22 17 37 44 15 40 RESPONSES 50

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1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 17 2.4 What is your favourite way to access photography? 2.4.2 EXHIBITIONS

1% 1% 4.5% 4% 6.5% 7.5% 10.4% 14.9% 19.9% 30.3% 80 2298 13 15 21 30 40 61 RESPONSES

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1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

18 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.4 What is your favourite way to access photography? 2.4.3 PHOTOGRAPHY BOOKS

1.5% 2.5% 3% 3.5% 6.5% 7.5% 13.4% 22.4% 17.4% 22.4% 60 35 6 7 13 15 27 45 35 45 RESPONSES 50

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LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 19 2.4 What is your favourite way to access photography? 2.4.4JOU RNALS&MAGAZINES

4.5% 4.5% 4.5% 7.5% 14.9% 11.4% 13.4% 23.4% 8.5% 7.5% 60 99 9 15 30 23 27 47 17 15 RESPONSES 50

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1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

20 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.4 What is your favourite way to access photography? 2.4.5 EVENTS, MEETINGS & TALKS

1.5% 4.5% 2% 5.5% 14.9% 12.4% 12.9% 22.4% 10.4% 13.4% 60 39 4 11 30 25 26 45 21 27 RESPONSES 50

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LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 21 2.4 What is your favourite way to access photography? 2.4.6 other... 25 responses

Workshops Direct involvement with photographers/artists

Just get out there with a camera Club

Organically Public spaces

I have dedicated over thirty years of my life to photography; all channels available For me, looking at other photographers work in the form of exhibitions has been the most helpful, followed should be used to promote high quality work and its accessibility to the general public. by books.

Meeting students studying photography

Always good to go to exhibition/meetings etc with others so can discuss afterwards

Above answers may vary if I was in a city or town rather than rural area

Community led projects.

Tutorials / courses

Seeing relatives photos

Talking to and meeting with photographers and artists.

Social Media

Competitions (7 responses)

Best of all is viewing prints in boxes

Exhibitions and talks would be much rated much higher if there were exhibitions and talks regularly within Pembrokeshire. It's extremely time-consuming and expensive to regularly travel to Cardiff for these.

22 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 23 Context

It is often said that photography is a lonely pursuit.

2.5 Commercial, editorial and long-form projects often involve photographers working with others but many photographers work alone in making images.

Question 2.5 asked what role/s respondents might prefer to adopt if If the opportunity arose, collaborating on a photography project with others.

Nine categories were offered for multiple selection, and respondents asked wouldyouworkona to score those roles that might interest them from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or describe their own preferred role if photography project in Wales working with others. with others? Question 2.5 Results Summary

By adding the scores in the 6 - 10 range in each category, the summary results are as follows: Work as a Photographer 87.3% Generally Help Out 68.2% Work as an Editor 59.6% Work on Publishing / Exhibition 55.1% Work as an Organiser 44.6% Work as a Writer 41.1% Work on Marketing 28.3% Work on Fundraising 25.7% Work as a Graphic Designer 13.1%

24 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.1 WORK AS A PHOTOGRAPHER

3.6% 1% 2% 1% 5.1% 3.1% 8.2% 16.3% 10.7% 49%

100 RESPONSES 72 4 2 10 6 16 32 21 96

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LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 25 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.2 WORK AS AN EDITOR

11.9% 2.6% 6.7% 4.1% 15% 9.3% 13% 17.6% 5.2% 14.5% 40 23 5 13 8 29 18 25 34 10 28 RESPONSES

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26 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.3 WORK AS A WRITER

19.8% 5.7% 9.4% 5.7% 18.2% 5.7% 11.5% 10.9% 5.2% 7.8% 45 38 11 18 11 35 11 22 21 10 15 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 27 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.4 WORK AS AN ORGANISER

15% 4.1% 8.3% 11.9% 16.1% 7.3% 12.4% 10.9% 3.6% 10.4% 40

29 8 16 23 31 14 24 21 7 20 RESPONSES

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28 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.5 WORK AS A GRAPHIC DESIGNER

41.7% 13.5% 13.5% 7.3% 10.9% 4.7% 1% 4.2% 1.6% 1.6% 90

80 26 26 14 21 9 2 8 3 3 RESPONSES 80

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 29 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.6 WORK ON PUBLISHING / EXHIBITION

11.7% 6.6% 6.1% 5.6% 14.8% 13.3% 8.2% 16.3% 5.6% 11.7% 70 23 13 12 11 29 26 16 32 11 23 RESPONSES 60

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30 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.7 WORK ON MARKETING

24.7% 10.3% 9.8% 12.4% 14.4% 7.2% 7.7% 7.2% 2.6% 3.6% 60 48 20 19 24 28 14 15 14 5 7 RESPONSES 50

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 31 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.8 WORK ON FUNDRAISING

30.4% 7.2% 9.8% 8.8% 18% 7.7% 8.2% 6.7% 0.5% 2.6% 70 59 14 19 17 35 15 16 13 1 5 RESPONSES 60

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32 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.9 GENERALLY HELP OUT

5.1% 3.6% 5.1% 5.6% 12.3% 8.7% 19% 12.8% 10.3% 17.4% 50 10 7 10 11 24 17 37 25 20 34 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 33 2.5 If the opportunity arose, would you work on a photography project in Wales with others? 2.5.10 other... 7 responses

Curate

I very much believe in collaborative documentary projects between photographers and others in the photographic world. Since the Farm Security Administration projects during the US depression years of the last century there have been numerous such projects successfully producing work of in-depth excellence in many places world-wide; why shouldn’t they work in Wales? I would very much like to be involved in and bring my professional skills to a collaborative project in Wales.

Would love an opportunity to gain more experience

It might be interesting to CONCEIVE a photography project in Wales

Without a overview the questions above are hard to answer, depends ?

Research - history of photography

I've worked all my life volunteering for photography festivals, hanging exhibitions, etc.All photographers need to give something back to the medium.

34 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 35 Context

Having an interest in photography - professional or enthusiast - leads many to seek out others with similar interests in types/genres of photography to 2.6 develop their skills, visual literacy, equipment knowledge, participate in discussion/debate and networking/socialising.

Question 2.6 simply asked if respondents were currently members of any Areyouamemberofa photography group. For those who confirmed they were, we then asked them to state which group - formal or informal. photography group, club, association or society? Question 2.6 Results Summary The majority of survey respondentswere not currently a member of a photography group: (informal and/or formal) No 64.2% Yes 35.8%

36 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 2.6 Are you a member of a photography group, club, association or society? (informal and/or formal)

YES 35.8% 64.2% NO

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 37 2.6.1 If yes, please identify any you engage with currently 72 responses

The North Wales Project Trostre Camera Club Beginning to explore Made In Roath Community darkroom facilities butearly days for me RPS Rhondda Creative Community Group Welsh Photographic Federation. New Quay Camera Club Wales. P.S.A, Cardiff Camera Club Master Photographers Association America. F.I.A.P,France. Ffoton Cwmbran PS; Cymru Monochrome; Welsh Photographic Valley Ffocws Collective Federation; PAGB Phrame Collective NUJ, Phrame Collective,Women Photograph Phrame,Valley Ffocws, Ffoton Carmarthen Photographic Society AOP,Kiln Photo Workshop Welsh Photographic Federation, Pyle and Porthcawl Rhiwbina Camera Club Photographic Society thekickplateproject Magnum Photos Gwynfa Camera Club Monmouth Photographic club and Ross on Wye Photographic Society

Royal Photographic Society, Nefelibata, Ped4air Association of Photographers; I also established a successful FB Phrame Wales group for Pro Photographers with several thousand members (all Blaenau Ffestiniog Camera Club vetted) RPS - and various documentary related groups Builth Wells Photographic Club Association of Photographers MPA, RPS,TPA Inside the Outside Valley focus Royal Photographic Society, Streetsnappers Collective, Prestatyn Camera Club AOP,BPPA Clwb Camera Caernarfon Ffoton Carmarthen Photographic Society & Cymru Mono I help set up the Basement Collective in Swansea Society for Photographic Education (USA) RPS / WPF just facebook groups Oriel Colwyn, RPS, Dwyfor Camera Club, Eryri Camera Club The Photo Space, Ludlow. Informal gathering of Hereford Lens Culture College of Arts graduates Camera Club, Lacock Photography, University Photography Degree Camera club Course Group. IndustrieKulturfotografie (IKF) Royal Photographic Society, Swansea Adult Learners, National Camera club Square One, Cardiff Trust in Wales AOP Abergavenny Camera Club Tredegar Camera Club Gwynfa Camera Club, Rhondda Photography Club, Rhondda Creative Carmarthen Photographic Society Coffee#1 Monmouth old-boys occasional and convivial Community Group nattering group Carmarthen Photographic Society I'm currently and associate international member (ARPS) of the Llanelli Photographic Society RoyalPhotographic Society in documentary photography. I'm old as dirt LiP (London Independent Photography) at 77,and joined the RPS last year just to support their efforts to Image Works workshops (Cardiff University) encourage people involved in the medium. Like education. Magnum, RPS etc

38 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 39 3. Photography in Wales now

40 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results Introduction Section 3: Photography in Wales now

This survey is a first attempt to measure the wider interest in photography across Wales up to and during 2020. Online platforms now offer the opportunity for many to discover and follow photography and photographers from across the globe and, conversely, for work made here to be shared beyond Wales and the UK.

Alongside these online platforms, ‘old-school’ events, talks, festivals, books and galleries still remain popular vehicles to consume and interact with photography in Wales. But how popular are they?

Section 3: Photography in Wales now set out to survey views on preferred online engagement; preferred exhibition types; photography Festivals organised in recent years in Wales and preferred photography-specific spaces receiving funding in terms of best value and visiting experience offered.

3. Photography in Wales now

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 41 Context

Internet-based platforms and services provide a variety of ways to view, 3.1 share and interact with photography and photographers. Question 3.1 sought to discover any preferences in the forms of online offerings currently provided in Wales.

In terms of the online Five categories were offered for selection, and respondents asked to score from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or describe photography offer in Wales, their own favourite online offering. what is your favourite feature? Question 3.1 Results Summary

By adding the scores in the 6 - 10 range in each category, the summary results are as follows: Online Galleries 71.6% Online Videos 70% Online Writing on photography 67.7% Online Audio conversations 53.3% Online Competitions 32.1%

42 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.1 In terms of the online photography offer in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.1.1 ONLINE GALLERIES

7% 1.5% 4% 6% 10% 13.9% 18.4% 19.9% 6.5% 12.9% 45

14 3 8 12 20 28 37 40 13 26 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 43 3.1 In terms of the online photography offer in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.1.2 ONLINE WRITING ABOUT PHOTOGRAPHY

7.5% 2.5% 4.5% 6% 11.9% 13.9% 17.9% 19.9% 8% 8% 45

15 5 9 12 24 28 36 40 16 16 RESPONSES

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44 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.1 In terms of the online photography offer in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.1.3 ONLINE AUDIO CONVERSATIONS

9% 7.5% 10% 8% 12.4% 9% 10.4% 20.4% 6.5% 7% 50

18 15 20 16 25 18 21 41 13 14 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 45 3.1 In terms of the online photography offer in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.1.4 ONLINE VIDEOS

5.5% 3.5% 6% 6% 9% 10.4% 16.9% 18.9% 11.4% 12.4% 45

11 7 12 12 18 21 34 38 23 25 RESPONSES

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46 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.1 In terms of the online photography offer in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.1.5 ONLINE COMPETITIONS

25.6% 8% 11.6% 9% 13.6% 8.5% 11.1% 7.5% 1% 4% 60

51 16 23 18 27 17 22 15 2 8 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 47 3.1 In terms of the online photography offer in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.1.6 OTHER... 15 responses

No

No To the best of my knowledge Ffoton is the only online source for Welsh photographers. I am based in North Wales with connections through Oriel Colwyn and The Eye festivals. South Wales is too far Festivals away for face to face meetings.We need to build a photographers community up here with common interests and values. Already a barrier

Technique,tutorials, skills sharing, cinematography, film-making as well as still photos

None

Following photographers and photography groups on Twitter

This is too general a question

Would not wish to pay anything for online content

Whatever format - it needs to be inclusive and accessible. I'm deaf and many videos/audio conversations lack subtitles or transcripts.Talks need to have good sound.Talks in functions rooms/ pubs often aren't accessible - I recognise limitations on resources but it does make it tough to participate.

Galleries, both online and physical

I wouldn't pay for any of the above except entry fee for competition

Not really aware of any specific online Welsh galleries or writing on photography. If it's onlinethe Welsh border shouldn't really apply, although I understand an online 'Welsh'presence is perhaps desirable! My only real awareness of Welsh related discussion is that on Ffoton, which is excellent. Despite the existence of ffotogallery, in my experience they're not really fully engaged with Welsh photographers or photography (they have been occasionally but don't appear to be invested in it), rather (and I realise cynically), recently funding exhibitions of middle east oriented work with the most tenuous connection to the UK/Wales , perhaps in order to facilitate a nice jolly to Oman etc. for the organisers?

48 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 49 Context

Exhibitions have long been an important vehicle in curating and sharing 3.2 photography with physical audiences. Question 3.2 sought to discover just how popular they still are and what types of exhibition respondents preferred and whether quality of the work In terms of photography shown was an important factor. Six categories were offered for selection, and respondents asked to score from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. exhibitions in Wales, An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or describe their own favourite feature of exhibitions. what is your favourite feature? Question 3.2 Results Summary

By adding the scores in the 6 - 10 range in each category, the summary results are as follows: Quality of work rather than quantity 93.4% Solo exhibitions 86.6% Exhibitions on a theme 86% Contemporary exhibitions 79.6% Group exhibitions 79.5% Historical exhibitions 76.5%

50 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.2 In terms of photography exhibitions in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.2.1CONTEMPORARY EXHIBITIONS

4.5% 1.5% 2% 4.5% 8% 4.5% 11.9% 21.9% 18.4% 22.9% 60

9 3 4 9 16 9 24 44 37 46 RESPONSES

50

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10

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 51 3.2 In terms of photography exhibitions in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.2.2HISTORICAL EXHIBITIONS

2.5% 1% 2% 3.5% 14.4% 11.4% 16.9% 20.9% 16.9% 10.4% 60

5 2 4 7 29 23 34 42 34 21 RESPONSES

50

40

30

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1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

52 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.2 In terms of photography exhibitions in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.2.3E XHIBITIONS ON A THEME

2% 2% 2% 1% 7% 10.4% 20.9% 26.4% 11.4% 16.9% 60

4 4 4 2 14 21 42 53 23 34 RESPONSES

50

40

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10

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 53 3.2 In terms of photography exhibitions in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.2.4GROUP EXHIBITIONS

3% 3% 1.5% 2.5% 10.4% 11.4% 15.9% 25.4% 14.9% 11.9% 60

6 6 3 5 21 23 32 51 30 24 RESPONSES

50

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10

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

54 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.2 In terms of photography exhibitions in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.2.5SOLO EXHIBITIONS

1.5% 1% 0% 5% 6% 7% 11.9% 27.9% 19.9% 19.9% 60 RESPONSES 3 2 0 10 12 14 24 56 40 40 50

40

30

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10

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 55 3.2 In terms of photography exhibitions in Wales, 3.2.6QUALITY OF WORK what is your favourite feature? RATHERTHAN QUANTITY

0.5% 0% 0% 0.5% 5.6% 2.5% 5.6% 14.1% 18.2% 53% 120

1 0 0 1 11 5 11 28 36 105 RESPONSES

100

80

60

40

20

1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

56 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.2 In terms of photography exhibitions in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.2.7 other... 12 responses

What one considers to be relevant or of interest is obviously totally subjective. However, from my experience, in Wales there has been a very sad lack of trying to involve professional practitioners with international experience in making strategic decisions regarding the unleashed potential of photography and its development in the country, this has arguably led to some rather basic past errors.

Last year I attended an exhibit in Cardiff at the National Museum of Wales.There were three photographers exhibiting, Martin Parr, the Bechers, and August Sander who is no longer living. All had lovely work, and different work. I thought the Sander work was strongest. Is that work historical, contemporary, or both?

Looking for non pretentious exhibitions where the artists not only have interesting things to say but present it using visually engaging images rather than the current fad of dreary, dull-lit, lifeless images of the banal, masquerading as 'worthy'photography. Utterly depressing.

Many of the best exhibitions tend not to be generated locally but brought in from outside e.g Koudelka, the Bechers, Sander. Perhaps the way to change this might be to curate a ‘best of Wales’historical group show.

The question does not relate to quality - any exhibition of quality is interesting - any of poor quality boring.

Most shows I see are in Aberystwyth, Swansea or Machynlleth - quite a stretch to go further.

Community created photography should be valued above the same old, same old ?

Black-and-white photography, darkroom printed - not digital.

3.2.6 cannot answer with a dot

Local welsh landmarks.

new artists

None

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 57 3.2 In terms of photography exhibitions in Wales, what is your favourite feature? 3.2.8WOULD YOU PAY / SUBSCRIBE FOR THESE? (CHECK ALL THAT APPLY)

0.5% (1) : other

63.7% (128) : quality work rather than quantity 57.7% (116) : contemporary exhibitions 52.2% (105) : solo exhibitions 50.2% (101) : historical exhibitions 46.8% (94) : exhibitions on a theme 42.3% (85) : group exhibitions

58 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 59 Context

Wales has offered four different Festival events specific to photography in 3.3 recent years with different programme formats: Lens Festival Organised and hosted over a weekend by The National Library of Wales. In terms of current The EYE International Photography Festival Organised by photographer Glenn Edwards and hosted over a weekend at Aberystwyth Arts Centre. photography festivals in Wales, Diffusion Festival Organised by Ffotogallery over a full month at several venues in Cardiff. The Northern EYE Photography Festival what format do you prefer and Organised by Oriel Colwyn in collaboration with The EYE Festival offering a weekend speaker event and two week fringe of exhibitions around Colwyn would consider paying for? Bay. Question 3.3 sought to discover just how popular their formats are and if respondents would pay to attend.

Four festivals were offered for selection, and respondents asked to score from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or describe their own preferred festival format.

Question 3.3 Results Summary

Preference (in number of votes) was shown for: Diffusion Festival 123 Lens Festival 118 EYE Festival 106 Northern EYE Festival 104

Respondents showed a preference to pay for: EYE Festival 83 Northern EYE Festival 64 Diffusion Festival 42

60 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.3 In terms of current photography festivals in Wales, what format do you prefer and would consider paying for? (check all that apply)

OF INTEREST NO INTEREST WOULD PAY FOR

123 53 42 106 35 83 104 53 64 118 64 32 78 112 21

150 RESPONSES

125

100

75

50

25

DIFFUSION THE EYE INTERNATIONAL THE NORTHERN EYE LENS OTHER FESTIVAL FESTIVAL FESTIVAL FESTIVAL (see 3.3.1)

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 61 3.3 In terms of current photography festivals in Wales, what format do you prefer and would consider paying for? 3.3.1 other... (Page 1 of 3) 79 responses

Talks and eating together Across Wales - showcased at various different venues over a fixed period of time with community workshops. Photographers Collective Exhibitions -There should be more! No idea, it's late. The Eye, informal, non pretentious, open to all types of photographer, non elitist Prints The Northern EYE Events spread over a month or so, centred around a single venue or town. County areas Lens I can’t answer this as I have no knowledge of these festivals. On a theme Eye fest Don't know Touring? So that people from all parts of Wales can enjoy it. It’s often difficult for those in work or with family commitments to get to festivals unless they are close by. Open call

Themed Both EYE festivals get the balance between Welsh based work and International stuff just right. I avoid anything that shows "lens based media"because it's always vacuous and self-serving work. Egotistical Seminars,Talks and participation photography gets too much airtime... and funding.

n/a Culture and its access should not be dependent on ones ability to pay. Indeed, as with education, it should be publicly funded and free! Urdd and National Eisteddfod could feature photography more Don't know them The Northern Eye was interesting in that it was only centred around the theatre - the spreading of the various work around the town was pretty cool. Diffusion (the first one) was similar and for that reason one Northern Eye is very good,very well organised yet wonderfully informal of the best. The Northern Eye is my idea of festival perfection, great talks, exhibitions, time allowed to look at the A less snobby approach to ALL photography genres. exhibitions, wonderful people, friendly atmosphere and very much a 'we're all in this together'vibe.

I've not been to any recently so can't really comment. Have run a small film festival a few times and More awareness of what the festivals are done exhibitions myself. Film, moving image and photography. Something to compliment/rival Format, Derby

62 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.3 In terms of current photography festivals in Wales, what format do you prefer and would consider paying for? 3.3.1 other... (Page 2 of 3) 79 responses

Very broad question. But exploration, exhibition elements mixed with informal music, dance, playful. Not bothered Not lofty / conference or business feel-setting but still incorporating conversation. Diffusion Similar to Organ Vida or Arles Mixture of Arts. The Eye Festival Black and white they all have an usp. Diffusion festival I really enjoyed the Eye Festival when I went a few years ago.The talks were engaging and interesting and I had a great experience so anything like that would suit me! Each festival is different in format, content and levels of accessibility.All have their place

I have not visited any of the exhibitions in 3.3 so am unable to answer Not sure.

Plenty of time to look at photos, discuss and question speakers, not too much chalk and talk, informal One that aims to break down barriers between photographic communities.

Although I live one hour away from Aberystwyth I have never attended the Eye festival as it seems Gallery expensive and does not offer the kind of photography I am interested in.The Hereford Photo festival was an example of something I would be interested in. I do attend art symposiums and events such as the Monochrome prints, hand printed in a darkroom. Anthropocene symposium at Aber a few years ago and events at the Glynn Vivian, Swansea (Pollinators event), etc. Diffusion always seems too obscurely contemporary and curator driven. Exhibitions and events organised by non profit makers Online or possibly gallery Short and sweet - i.e. not long drawn out. Any in north west Wales Something that brings the best the world can offer to a major venue in Wales Some near me Sorry but I've never been to any,YET! Diffusion as it has a wider range of activities and exhibits and broader interest Not sure I know enough to comment on format in detail Unsure.A festival that is not so heavily dominated by male photographers and documentary/social/ street photography because I want to see more women celebrated and more creative photography seen. I Smaller Local Festivals am a female photographer and need more female role models and visual influence and inspiration.The creativity in photography is broad and I want to see that, not just the pretentious monochrome street I like festivals that encourage you to explore the location (spread out venues), but also include talks to photography and intellectual documentary photography. It seems local exhibitions are mainly quite serious give a central meeting space and the chance to meet other photographers. affairs and it would be nice to see a little more fun injected them, maybe some interactivity.

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 63 3.3 In terms of current photography festivals in Wales, what format do you prefer and would consider paying for? 3.3.1 other... (Page 3 of 3) 79 responses

Diverse content, female/young/new photographer I'm not knowledgeable enough with some of the festivals listed above to answer. If the festivals offer programs by qualified people I would pay. I live in Virginia and I know Sally Mann and Emmet Gowin,both Wide range photographers from Virginia. Knowing their work and their lifelong commitment to photography I would pay to hear them be interviewed, or see exhibits of their work.And I've heard both of them speak before. Some I have not been to, they are of interest but I cant say I would pay as I've never been I don't generally do portrait work, but if Nadav Kander were speaking in Wales about his portrait or landscape work I would pay to hear it. Afraid I'm not familiar with Lens Festival. Diffusion in the past has failed to impress me, I don't recall much in the way of Welsh/UK documentary photography.

Not keen on Photo Festivals , full of photographers!

The Eye Festival

Varied, boundry crossing - highlights important photography as well as engaging newcomers and more general public to help grown the community of photography

Diffusion

An arts centre-based festival.

Speakers and exhibitions

I am very happy with the festivals on offer in Wales. I do like the effort that has been put into place to make the Northern Eye a reality.

I don't get to hear about any of the above! Advertising is obviously very poor.

Lectures/Talks Q&A's

Open walls - public spaces

I'd like to see more landscape and historical based exhibitions.

As per Diffusion

The Eye Festival in Aberystwyth is fine as it is

64 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 65 Context

There are many gallery spaces around Wales showing visual art but relatively 3.4 few that collect and exhibit photography specifically. Question 3.4 sought to gain insight on which of the larger funded spaces in Wales with a history of commissioning, collecting and exhibiting photography offered best value and experience for visitors and how smaller spaces In terms of funded compared.

Four categories were offered for selection: three of which are Registered photography spaces in Wales, Charity organisations with Board oversight receiving significant public funding on an annual recurring basis (National Museum and National Library as Welsh Government Sponsored Bodies, and Ffotogallery as an Arts which of the following in your Council of Wales ‘Arts Portfolio’ member). The fourth category represents smaller photography spaces that may or may not receive Public funding opinion offer the best support. Survey respondents were asked to score from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or state their own views on best value value and visiting experience? and visiting experience.

Question 3.4 Results Summary

By adding the scores in the 6 - 10 range in each category, the summary results are as follows: National Museum Wales 82.1% Independent gallery / space 76.1% Ffotogallery 62.6% National Library of Wales 58.2%

66 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.4 In terms of funded photography spaces in Wales, which of the following in your opinion offer the best 3.4.1 National Museum Wales value and visiting experience?

3% 0% 1.5% 1.5% 11.9% 5% 11.4% 22.4% 13.4% 29.9% 70

6 0 3 3 24 10 23 45 27 60 RESPONSES 60

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1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 67 3.4 In terms of funded photography spaces in Wales, which of the following in your opinion offer the best 3.4.2 National Library of Wales value and visiting experience?

9% 2% 3.5% 4% 23.4% 12.4% 15.4% 17.9% 5.5% 7% 70

18 4 7 8 47 25 31 36 11 14 RESPONSES 60

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1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

68 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.4 In terms of funded photography spaces in Wales, which of the following in your opinion offer the best 3.4.3Ffot ogallery value and visiting experience?

8% 4.5% 7% 5% 12.9% 9% 11.4% 15.4% 14.9% 11.9% 70

16 9 14 10 26 18 23 31 30 24 RESPONSES 60

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1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 69 3.4 In terms of funded photography spaces in Wales, which of the following in your opinion offer the best 3.4.4 Independent gallery/space value and visiting experience?

5.5% 1.5% 2% 3.5% 11.4% 10% 12.9% 22.9% 11.4% 18.9% 70

11 3 4 7 23 20 26 46 23 38 RESPONSES 60

50

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1 2 3 4 5 67 8 9 10

LEASTFAVOURITE FAVOURITE

70 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 3.4 In terms of funded photography spaces in Wales, which of the following in your opinion offer the best 3.4.5 other... value and visiting experience? 30 responses

Oriel Colwyn I haven't been able to visit any of those galleries so can't comment.All, as usual, in South (mid Wales) not up North -your question FORCES an answer which is daft for those who of us living in the North who can't Truth is I spend more time in Liverpool than Cardiff, it is more accessible. easily access those venues. I have therefore marked the main galleries as ZERO as I have no other choice. No idea what "value"means or what you are trying to evaluate from above. Non funded galleries have an important role to play in offering accessible exhibition space but also a place The Workers Gallery,Ynyshir for individual photographers- and other creatives to meet. Funded should not been seen as 'better'- there is room and need for the private & public. Wasn't aware of the National Library so haven't visited. Best value by far is The Kickplate project. Proof of what can be achieved if a little funding is put in the right hands. I don't understand what you mean by Independent gallery/space. Ffotogallery is an independent gallery and has been so since 1978 Not been to any of the above , paying to access photography is not the way forward, look at the Amber / Side model , difficult to do now, strong community involvement and legacy projects . Small , free deliverable I think Ffotogallery was closed the last time I was in Wales, so I don't have an opinion on what they are projects , cultural and educational opportunities in deprived communities .The practice of photography rather doing. than a wine quaffing spectator perspective.

I've never been to Ffotogallery or a Welsh independent gallery so not able to give an accurate score Regrettably, of the above, I've only visited the National Museum of Wales

Should be a don't know option Smaller galleries sometimes interesting particularly with community activity.

Quite biased on that last one na

There is plenty of room for improvement in all of the above Newport Library / Museum / Gallery

I haven't visited any of the first 3 venues so am unable to comment on their facilities but looking themup CWTSH online they appear good and inviting spaces. Royal Photographic Society Gallery and National Trust Photographic Exhibitions Although not funded I feel ffotogaleri y gofeb in Mach is a very strong effort and worth the journey. Pop ups in communities Note, not really familiar with the National Library of Wales photo offerings.Whilst I like the ffotogallery space I've not been particularly excited by much of the work exhibited. I would like to see more independent galleries showing excellent work, e.g. David Hurn recently at The Workers. Photography galleries aren’t exactly in abundance in North Wales and I’d rather go to London than Cardiff because it takes far less time. I have not experienced any of those I rated 5 so gave this average mark. Very little in north west Wales Please note: not visited National Library. I have not visited the top 3 I can’t answer above as have not seen all of them.

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 71 4. Photography in Wales going forward

72 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results Introduction Section 4: Photography in Wales going forward

This final section presented a series of questions for survey participants to consider around current photography activity and key organisations who deliver their photography offering in Wales, then think forward from 2021.

When preparing this survey we were unaware of the North Wales Photographic Association1 (our apologies to them) otherwise they would have been included in Question 4.5 due to their formal structure and activities akin to that of The Welsh Photographic Federation. They are now on our radar and, hopefully, yours.

As stated in the main introduction, this survey ran online from 15 February 2020 and closed 30 June 2020- launching just as Covid-19 was gaining traction in Wales and closing towards the tail-end of the first wave of the pandemic. Clearly, Covid-19 now (and Brexit now looming) will have a serious, and as yet undetermined, impact on the UK economy and that of Wales as a devolved Nation. Should we expect serious challenges for photography as a profession and will public funding that supports photography in Wales be similarly impacted?.

Section 4: Photography in Wales going forward set out to survey views on any preferred new exhibition 4. Photography in Wales going forward types/locations; preferred publications, workshops and meeting formats; any preferred organisation to organise and deliver photography activity in Wales; views and preference on how photography activity is funded; and views on photography activity, funding, opportunities and strategy going forward. A final question invited respondents to suggest, in their own words, what might help develop the wider photography community in Wales in the future.

1 http://nwpa.co.uk/What_is_the_NWPA.htm

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 73 Context

Popularity for the physical and online exhibition of photography worldwide 4.1 appears to have been buoyant in 2020. Question 4.1 sought to determine the level of interest in photography exhibitions in Wales and whether respondents would like to see more In terms of photography exhibitions - of any size or form - going forward. Four categories were offered for selection: three of which sought to determine if respondents were satisfied with the current photography exhibitions in Wales, exhibition offering. The fourth category sought to gauge prior experience of working on exhibitions. what would you prefer and Respondents were asked to score from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. consider paying for? Question 4.1 Results Summary

Perhaps unsurprisingly, the majority of survey respondents felt more photography exhibitions could be staged in Wales.

More exhibitions in my region 63.7% … and would consider paying for 38.8%

More exhibitions in Wales 60.1% … and would consider paying for 63.4%

Fewer exhibitions in Wales 5.5%

Experience of working on exhibitions 67.1%

74 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.1 In terms of photography exhibitions in Wales, what would you prefer and consider paying for? (check all that apply)

OF INTEREST NO INTEREST WOULD PAY FOR

121 11 103 11 188 5 128 17 78 135 55 21 201 RESPONSES

100

MORE EXHIBITIONS FEWER EXHIBITIONS MORE EXHIBITIONS EXPERIENCEOFWORKINGON IN WALES IN WALES IN MY REGION EXHIBITIONS?

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 75 Context

Photography printed publications - both single volumes and periodicals - remain a popular alternative to prints on gallery walls and, in some cases, a 4.2 companion. Commercial and self-published books by Welsh photographers have been available for many years and new titles continue to be published.

Question 4.2 sought to gauge the popularity of different forms of Interms of photography photography publications available in Wales currently and some suggested other forms that could be explored. publications relatingto Wales, Seven categories were offered for survey respondents to complete - thelast asking if respondents had prior experience of working on publications. which are your favourites and consider paying/subscribing Question 4.2 Results Summary Results from the 201 survey respondents were... for? Photography book on a theme 61.2% … and would consider paying for 42.8%

Periodic Journals/Magazines on a theme 59.2% … and would consider paying for 29.8%

Periodic News Journals/Magazines 55.7% … and would consider paying for 37.3%

Historical photography book 55.7% … and would consider paying for 33.8%

Solo contemporary photographers’ book 53.2% … and would consider paying for 51.2%

A photography annual for Wales 49.2% … and would consider paying for 37.3%

Experience of working on publications? 49.7% … and would consider paying for 11.4%

76 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.2 In terms of photography publications relating to Wales, which are your favourites and consider paying/subscribing for? (check all that apply)

OF INTEREST NO INTEREST WOULD PAY FOR

107 271 03 123 26 86 112 46 68 112 45 75 119 50 60 99 48 75 100 86 23 140 RESPONSES

60

SOLOCONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY BOOK HISTORICAL PERIODICNEWS PERIODIC JOURNALS/ APHOTOGRAPHYANNUAL EXPERIENCEOFWORKING PHOTOGRAPHERS’ BOOK ON A THEME PHOTOGRAPHY BOOK JOURNALS/MAGAZINES MAGAZINES ON A THEME FOR WALES ON PUBLICATIONS?

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 77 Context

Photography printed publications - both single volumes and periodicals - remain a popular alternative to prints on gallery walls and, in some cases, a 4.3 companion. Commercial and self-published books by Welsh photographers have been available for many years and new titles continue to be published.

Question 4.3 sought to gauge the popularity of different forms of In terms of photography photography workshops that are or could be made available in Wales to develop skills. workshops in Wales, Seven categories were offered for survey respondents to complete - thelast asking if respondents had prior experience of running workshops. An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or state their own which would you prefer views or suggestions on preferred workshop formats. and consider paying for? Question 4.3 Results Summary

Results from the 201 survey respondents were... More workshops in Wales 58.7% … and would consider paying for 38.3%

More workshops in my region 54.7% … and would consider paying for 43.8%

Workshops on developing projects 54.2% … and would consider paying for 39.3%

Workshops on technical skills 47.3% … and would consider paying for 31.3%

Workshops on portfolio building 43.8% … and would consider paying for 30.3%

Workshops on photography writing 40.3% … and would consider paying for 28.8%

Experience of running workshops? 37.8% … and would consider paying for 10.4%

78 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.3 In terms of photography workshops in Wales, which would you prefer and consider paying for? (check all that apply)

OF INTEREST NO INTEREST WOULD PAY FOR

118 34 77 110 33 88 95 63 63 109 36 79 88 66 61 81 77 58 76 101 21 25 107 11 120 RESPONSES

60

MORE WORKSHOPS MORE WORKSHOPS WORKSHOPSON WORKSHOPSON WORKSHOPSON WORKSHOPSON HAVEYOUEXPERIENCE OTHER IN WALES IN MY REGION TECHNICAL SKILLS DEVELOPING PROJECTS PORTFOLIO BUILDING PHOTOGRAPHY WRITING RUNNING WORKSHOPS? (SEE 4.3.1)

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 79 4.3.1 What workshop format would you prefer? 4.3.1 other / comments 57 responses (Page 1 of 2)

Skills sharing is my favourite format, but I like more lecture-style and lecture-plus-practical styles too. I'm Photoshop not a big fan of purely practical based events, I like to have at least a bit of a theoretical overview as well. Oh I would absolutely love to go to more workshops if budget and location allowed. My top picks would be Alternative process techniques on technical skills, developing projects and photography writing (especially if it was working on our own writing about our work) Fairly small groups where it is easy to participate - access issues. If I was paying for a course I would expect an effort to be made to make sure it is accessible. Would be interested in workshops for experienced practitioners - there always seems to be a gap after MA level where little support is available for continued development. I attended an eight week programme run by It's about quality of who is leading the workshop and content, not format Redeye and Impressions on exhibiting, culminating in an exhibition at Touchstones Gallery, Rochdale which was excellent. I think Impressions still run a variant of this. It not only informed us of the process but created Tech skills friendships and networks which were probably as important. I would happily attend/contribute to/help run I think there is room for many different types - informal ones for people to exchange ideas to bringing in such a programme in west Wales if the opportunity arose. people with professional expertise (editors, photographers, publishers etc) for those aspiring to develop their Perhaps rather than specific workshops, regular social gatherings where people could bring prints to show, practice at a higher level. discuss?

Practical small groups Workshops that also gave access to technical/practical facilities

Similar to Relexions Masterclass or Reminders Book Making workshop Small group workshops and one to one training.

I would be open to most genres if the person teaching was knowledgeable. Participatory

Depends entirely on subject, could be a day course or a few days. Needs to ensure not always weekend Small scale up to 10 participants with one or two specialists based. Group work - community based Online but with regional photographers I would have interest on some Technical skill workshops but I feel as though they would have to be very Interactive; theme based; single point of learning - Either short (2 hours max) or super immersive & niche for me to be interested. For example Sports Photography and Editing are my current areas of interest. involving staying over camping, exploration of a new area. Touring shows to difficult to reach groups or remote areas. Alternative techniques By people from area, please no more Uni of south Wales in the Rhonda Lighting Workshop with a really good photographer Small group, hands on workshops. Day or two days in workshop Workshops on technical skills and portfolio building A small group (5-6 people) all working towards a goal within a set amount of time All day, weekend , evening, renowned photographer lectures etc

80 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.3.1 What workshop format would you prefer? 4.3.1 other / comments 57 responses (continued) (Page 2 of 2)

Regional Informal

Free to those unable to pay, not a good time to charge for this stuff , I have experience of teaching In-field workshops photography groups. Critique Portfolio building Sports photography Again anything of quality is going to be of interest to someone.Anything of low quality or lacking ambition is useless Developing Projects

Small groups near to Cardiff Photographers meeting to share ideas, evaluate work, initiate projects

Practical, starting with learning the principles, craft and art of photography

Relaxed, informal, plenty of time for discussion and reflection

Not bothered

Online and face to face

Different types of photographic techniques and alternative processes (large format, wet plate, etc)

Residential, three or four days, intense, with a firm objective.

Craft skills, bromide , platinum,

Online

Monochrome darkroom printing.

A day long seems to work very well, I have been on long weekends and they also worked.

Group teaching

Smaller groups

Small informal groups

One or two day workshop

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 81 Context

There is little doubt that meeting up with other photographers can be beneficial in terms of keeping abreast of developments in thewider 4.4 photography scene but also learn of potential new opportunities. Question 4.4 sought to gauge the popularity of different forms of meeting format that photographers currently attend in Wales or might prefer going In terms of photographers forward.

Seven categories were offered for survey respondents to complete - thelast meeting in Wales, asking if respondents had prior experience of running meetings. An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or state their own viewsor what would be your suggestions on preferred meeting formats. preference? Question 4.4 Results Summary Results from the 201 survey respondents were... Informal / social meetings 76.1% … and would consider paying for 11.4% More meetings in Wales 74.1% … and would consider paying for 17.4% Meetings associated with exhibitions 73.6% … and would consider paying for 14.9%

Meetings to discuss personal projects 72.1% … and would consider paying for 12.4%

More meetings in my region 71.6% … and would consider paying for 18.4%

Meetings on a specific theme 70.1% … and would consider paying for 13.4%

Experience of running meetings? 40.8% … and would consider paying for 5.5%

82 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.4 In terms of photographers meeting in Wales, what would be your preference? (check all that apply)

OF INTEREST NO INTEREST WOULD PAY FOR

149 32 35 144 35 37 153 33 23 145 39 25 148 39 30 141 47 27 82 112 11 54 144 3 160 RESPONSES

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MORE MEETINGS MORE MEETINGS INFORMAL/SOCIAL MEETINGSTODISCUSS MEETINGSASSOCIATED MEETINGS ON HAVEYOUEXPERIENCE OTHER IN WALES IN MY REGION MEETINGS PERSONAL PROJECTS WITH EXHIBITIONS A SPECIFIC THEME RUNNING MEETINGS? (SEE 4.4.1)

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 83 4.4 In terms of photographers meeting in Wales, 4.4.1 other / comments what would be your preference? (Page 1 of 2) (52 responses)

Informal Friendly and agenda less!

Any I love the idea of more informal photography meet ups. I've always found that the best ideas have come from talking In pubs with friends. It generates a different atmosphere to formal meet ups. Quality Relaxed, informal Sharing ideas Bit difficult to answer some of the questions above given the yes/no format. On a low income I would Exhibitions have to feel something was very worth the effort before paying for it and it would depend on the cost. Networking/mentoring/discussing work would be great.WARP in Cardiff were at one time looking to send a Small numbers, informal, leader/chair, regular meetings. mentor to west Wales to work with Oriel Q in Narberth offering support for developing artists.An online Less Cliquey, real problem in wales mechanism for meeting and discussing one another's projects might be interesting as it could cover all of Wales. Redeye in Manchester have probably already covered a lot of this territory.Arranged trips to venues Casual/Social meet such as Martin Parr's gallery in Bristol or shows further afield might be interesting, although awkward to arrange - a sort of networking/shared critical engagement? Weekend day events with afternoon tea. I run this sort of event for roleplaying games and film-making in the past and it has worked well; the food aspect feels friendly and makes people more willing to pay, and Face to face, small groups, actual shooting activity not just theory, localish so not too far to travel. you get lots of networking built in over cake and coffee. Meeting to collaborate with other artists Meetings across disciplines- art, photography, sculpture etc... Not bothered I don't know Small groups on theme In my region. Group discussion. Specific rather than general activity focus More meetings in my region social meetings Online There are a lot of online meetings that are free and are very good for sharing your work online and Meetings to discuss personal projects (in relation to a certain exhibition perhaps) critiques.

Meetings to discuss strategies on how to improve the standards of production in photographic Depends on the nature of the meeting communities in Wales. With speakers who know what they are talking about and not waffle or gossip Northern Eye type get togethers Variety of formats rather than one that is fixed. I love nothing more than meeting up with other people as obsessed with photography as much as me. Ideally I'd like more in my region in terms of accessibility and budget but I love the Wales photography Short, focussed and well-chaired, with objectives made clear from the start and then followed up. community so would go to more in Wales if financially possible. Not sure

Web meet ups? Meetings that also facilitate social interaction Informal

84 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.4 In terms of photographers meeting in Wales, 4.4.1 other / comments what would be your preference? (Page 2 of 2) (52 responses)

Easier to engage on specific topics, happy to be a speaker on behalf of the NUJ

Informal exchange of ideas

I'm in England but only just !

Varied - relaxed and formal both have a place

Inclusive

I like the format used by Photo Scratch for example

I would be most interested in meetings of any kind within Pembrokeshire. I'm not particularly aware of anyone else working in the area beyond postcard-type photographers so would be nice to meet other people.

Group

Formal and informal

Structured events based on a given theme

Face to face

Smaller groups

Small group, mixed gender, ideas-based, encouraging self-evaluation through writing

Something informal, idea sharing.

Conference / networking events

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 85 Context

Exhibition openings, gallery talks, Clubs, workshops and social gatherings are some examples of popular activities amongst photographers of all tastes and 4.5 skills levels. However, many photographers are often unaware of activities planned in their immediate or regional area.

Question 4.5 asked photographers which, if any, established organisation In terms of organising with a formal structure and already invested in photography might be preferred to organise photography activity in Wales going forward. photography activity in Wales, Five organisations plus the Education sector were offered for selection and survey respondents asked to score from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. An optional ‘other’ field allowed what would be your preferred respondents to comment and/or state their own preferred organisation organisation to undertake it? Question 4.5 Results Summary

By adding the scores in the 6 - 10 range in each category, the summary results are as follows: National Museum Wales 71.2% Royal Photographic Society 55.6% College / University 55.6% Welsh Photographic Federation 54.7% Ffotogallery 54.6% National Library of Wales 50.7%

86 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.5 In terms of organising photography activity in Wales, what would be your preferred organisation to undertake it? 4.5.1 National Museum Wales

2.5% 1% 3.5% 4.5% 17.4% 8.5% 13.4% 19.9% 7.5% 21.9% 60

5 2 7 9 35 17 27 40 15 44 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 87 4.5 In terms of organising photography activity in Wales, what would be your preferred organisation to undertake it? 4.5.2 National Library of Wales

6% 4% 7% 6.5% 25.9% 13.9% 10.4% 13.9% 4% 8.5% 60

12 8 14 13 52 28 21 28 8 17 RESPONSES

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88 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.5 In terms of organising photography activity in Wales, what would be your preferred organisation to undertake it? 4.5.3Ffot ogallery

7.5% 2.5% 2.5% 4% 18.9% 7% 10.4% 16.4% 10.9% 9.9% 60

15 5 5 8 38 14 21 33 22 40 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 89 4.5 In terms of organising photography activity in Wales, what would be your preferred organisation to undertake it? 4.5.4R oyal Photographic Society

8% 5% 5.5% 4% 21.9% 10.9% 11.4% 14.4% 6.5% 12.4% 60

16 10 11 8 44 22 23 29 13 25 RESPONSES

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90 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.5 In terms of organising photography activity in Wales, what would be your preferred organisation to undertake it? 4.5.5 Welsh Photographic Federation

8% 4.5% 5% 5% 22.9% 10.9% 12.9% 14.4% 6.5% 10% 60

16 9 10 10 46 22 26 29 13 20 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 91 4.5 In terms of organising photography activity in Wales, what would be your preferred organisation to undertake it? 4.5.6 College / University

8.5% 3.5% 5% 6% 21.4% 11.9% 11.4% 12.4% 8.5% 11.4% 60

17 7 10 12 43 24 23 25 17 23 RESPONSES

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92 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.5 In terms of organising photography activity in Wales, 4.5.7 other / comments what would be your preferred organisation to undertake it? (Page 1 of 2) 39 responses

Oriel Colwyn Ffotogallery should really top the list but they seem to have little interest in Welsh photography or photographers working in Wales.Whilst it is good to see work from across the world it does seem to me Anyone who deals with quality and ambition that giving opportunities to those at home should come first. I have never even had an email response from Ffotogallery which does not speak well.A new organisation (again Redeye springs to mind - I don't Indie, none of the above really know Ffoton well and need to spend more time on the website) collaborating with regional galleries Ffoton with arts council funding would seem one approach, but realise funding is unlikely in the current climate.

Private organisers are fine too! A lot of good photographers run tutorials and events and it would be Draw would be quality of provision / topic / content / contributors / related exhibition.Venue less nice to have a central forum for publicising and discussing them, too . relevant / important.

Collective - NMW + independents Smaller local groups should be encourage to create networks

Certain individuals. Cardiff Central Library

No comment No one institution should have a monopoly on organising or receiving funding

We need more galleries other than the Ffotogallery.They do great work but having a single gate keeper This should not be undertaken by any one institution, although all institutions should be encouraged to is not healthy. send their representatives.

I have no experience of working with any of the organisations listed but would prefer seeing it Not the Welsh Photographic Federation.They do not have an angle on what is actually happening with undertaken by organisations who focus primarily on photography and who are based within Wales. photography in Wales today! They are sorry to say, stuck in the past!

No institution should have an exclusive say in the organisation of photographic events in the country, as Collaborative projects with several institutions would also have value. it would inevitably be led by personal power politics and become colonial in its approach as, all too often, it Phrame Collective has been in the past.As far as possible, given the limited resources available, there should be a spirit of collaboration rather than competition and a healthy distribution of those resources is essential. Ffoton, galleries like Oriel Colwyn, photography collectives/groups, independent organisers,

Ffoton obviously and other collectives that are actually producing work in Wales Independent galleries in varied areas

Local groups What is the Welsh Photographic Federation!?

Organisations in more regional areas to understand / respond to the specific access issues and barriers / None of the above , a new initiative , see Side Gallery model and add a social / teaching element I'm not culture to that area. aware of any of the organisations above other than yourself , difficult to rate as funding is thin everywhere!

Ffoton A board of professionals, orgs and public spaces organise a calendar together to ensure not repeating each other, as well as co-ordinating the covering wide range of styles and ensuring inclusivity Ffotogallery should be the organisation to proceed with this, isn't that their remit? It doesn't matter, collaborations between some or all of these is better than competition Independent galleries, local groups interested in working together on photographic projects/activities.

I don't really know enough about how things are organised at the moment to comment

Carmarthen School of Art

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 93 4.5 In terms of organising photography activity in Wales, 4.5.7 other / comments what would be your preferred organisation to undertake it? (Page 2 of 2) 39 responses

I would imagine that both of the national institutions have the gravitas and material resources to effectively organise photographic activity in Wales. I've never attended Ffotogallery but they seem to be moving in the right direction. My experience of the RPS was in a chance encounter with members of a camera club and didn't lead me to believe that the RPS and camera clubs were heading toward the future. I've never heard of the Welsh Photographic Federation before so am unaware of their potential suitability. If a college/ university was able to organise photographic activity across the whole of Wales, and not just their own geographical location, this would only be positive as the nature of a learning/training institution would keep pushing photographers to look forwards.

In your questionnaire you have omitted the NWPA* as the WPF does not cover the whole of Wales.

I think different institutions have their own strengths and weaknesses and much will depend on their constituencies, remits and historical backgrounds but each have their role to play. In terms of generating new work and commissions then bodies like Ffotogallery are likely to be at the forefront. Obviously The National Museum and National Library have a greater capacity for archiving existing work while there are also important university research collections such as The School of Art in Aberystwyth.

Arts Council? Welsh Government?

No

*NWPA = North Wales Photographic Association

94 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 95 Context

Photography activities that provide opportunities to develop, make, show, 4.6 see and discuss photography take resources - people, time and funding. Photography and photographers have been adept at seeking out funding from a variety of sources for decades. Contemporary photographers, curators, galleries, museums and publishers source finance support from In terms of funding photography private and Public funding sources and, more recently, via supporters through crowd-funding. activity in Wales, Question 4.6 asked survey respondents for their views and any preference on how photography in Wales might be funded going forward. what would be your preference? Three categories were offered for selection, and respondents asked to score from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or describe their own preference.

Question 4.6 Results Summary

By adding the scores in the 6 - 10 range in each category, the summary results are as follows: Activity is a mix of funding 82.1% Activity is publicly funded 69.6% Activity is self-funded 58.7%

96 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.6 In terms of funding photography activity in Wales, what would be your preference? 4.6.1Activityisself-funded

4.5% 2% 5.5% 6% 23.4% 15.4% 16.4% 13.4% 4.5% 9% 60

9 4 11 12 47 31 33 27 9 18 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 97 4.6 In terms of funding photography activity in Wales, what would be your preference? 4.6.2Activity is publicly funded

3% 2% 2.5% 2% 20.9% 10.4% 13.4% 19.4% 10% 16.4% 60

6 4 5 4 42 21 27 39 20 33 RESPONSES

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98 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.6 In terms of funding photography activity in Wales, what would be your preference? 4.6.3Activityisamix of self & publicly funded

2% 1% 1% 2% 11.9% 5% 9% 19.9% 16.4% 31.8% 70 4 2 2 4 24 10 18 40 33 64

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 99 4.6 In terms of funding photography activity in Wales, 4.6.4 other / comments what would be your preference? 16 responses

As long as money is progressing quality in Wales it is useful. Ability to pay is the key, exclusion on economic grounds is bad news .

Ffoton It would be brilliant if all photo projects in Wales were publicly funded but this isn't necessarily realistic however having projects all needing to be solely self-funded will reduce the number of projects that are For funding -whatever works! Private funding means you can go ahead and do what the hell you like -we able to be undertaken.. ran a British Fetish Film Festival several times without having to get any sort of approval, we just hired a hall and got on with it. But it does tend to limit attendance to those able to afford to come, whereas public Funding photographic activity encompasses a whole range of activities from the individual to the funding means people on low incomes can come in off the street.Which can be great or can be a pain in the institutional. Many photographers self-fund their work and and will continue to do so. Having said that I ass, so choosing the funding mix depending on the aims and objectives of the event and the target audience believe that more funding should be made available in terms of grants and bursaries for funding long-term seems like the best idea. projects. Ffotogallery's Valleys Project drew its inspiration from the 1930's FSA Project in the USA and also The Side Gallery's own commissioning programme to document life in the North East of England.The no comment Valleys Project not only provided commissions to a range of different photographers but the work produced formed the basis of an archive that is still being consulted and exhibited today.Although the work was Culture and its access should not be dependent on ones ability to pay. Indeed, as with education, it should predominantly documentary in nature there was nevertheless a wide range of approaches from Francesca be largely publicly funded and free. Obviously there should be room for corporate sponsorship of events and Odell’s 35mm black and white work to Peter Fraser's colour images. One could argue as Paul Cabuts does voluntary contributions by the more fortunate; however, these should not be allowed to dictate strategy in for a commitment to social documentary practice.That was what The Side Gallery did and that was its any shape or form. abiding strength. However, that will exclude those who do not work within that genre, so provision has to Tough one: I feel that photography is under funded, and many photographs have to 'get creative'in self be made also for those making different sorts of work. Similarly, on an institutional level there should of funding but public funding brings with it the constrains that may squash creative development. course be publicly funded organisations to exhibit, publish and promote contemporary photography in Wales while also acknowledging the important work being done by the independent galleries like The Crowd funding, investment funding, linking in with other organisations to wrap around commercial Workers and ffotogaleri y gofeb. elements to activity in cogent way

Funding always comes at a cost in terms of direction and ethos - if there is funding then the funders will have content requirements, etc. so a balance would be preferable.

All of my previous projects have been self funded with no assistance from the governing bodies or arts councils and very little feedback why I was not successful in obtaining funding other than I don't know enough people in the industry. Quality and the success of work seems to be a after thought above who you rub shoulders with in the industry.

Funding is of course important and public funding is most helpful, but photographers and artists have become used to the fact that funding is becoming more and more difficult and have to rely on self funding options

All of the above

Arts Council of Wales should also provide funding to ALL not just the same few people

We need the institutions to show, distribute, archive and celebrate work made in Wales, but they should not be the instigators of work. Subject matter is something only the photographers themselves can decide.

100 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 101 Context

As a follow-up toQuestion 4.6, we explored five key areas relating to activity 4.7 and where funding is often deployed. Question 4.7 asked whether survey respondents agreed or disagreed with the statements put forward.

In terms of photography activity Five statements were offered for selection, and respondents asked to score from a scale of 1 - 10 in each; where1 = least favourite and10 = favourite. An optional ‘other’ field allowed respondents to comment and/or provide in Wales, do you agree/disagree their own suggestions. with the following? Question 4.7 Results Summary

By adding the scores in the 6 - 10 range in each category, the summary results are as follows:

More opportunities to engage with photography 91.5% Shared strategy for future activity development 86.5% More opportunities to learn about photography 84.6% Activity is good and should continue as is 50.2% Photography Public funding is balanced and fair 20.5%

102 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.7 In terms of photography activity in Wales, 4.7.1 Photography activity in Wales do you agree/disagree with the following? 201 responses is good and should continue as it is

7% 1% 8.5% 14.4% 18.9% 12.4% 21.4% 13.9% 0% 2.5% 60

14 2 17 29 38 25 43 28 0 5 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 103 4.7 In terms of photography activity in Wales, 4.7.2 Public funding for photography do you agree/disagree with the following? 201 responses in Wales is balanced and fair

17.4% 10.4% 10.9% 16.4% 24.4% 6.5% 6.5% 4.5% 0.5% 2.5% 60

35 21 22 33 49 13 13 9 1 5 RESPONSES

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104 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.7 In terms of photography activity in Wales, 4.7.3 There should be more opportunities do you agree/disagree with the following? available to learn about photography

0.5% 0.5% 2% 1% 11.4% 5.5% 13.9% 23.9% 11.4% 29.9% 60

1 1 4 2 23 11 28 48 23 60 RESPONSES

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 105 4.7 In terms of photography activity in Wales, 4.7.4 There should be more opportunities do you agree/disagree with the following? to engage with photography

0.5% 0% 0.5% 1% 6.5% 2% 12.4% 21.4% 17.9% 37.8% 80

1 0 1 2 13 4 25 43 36 76 RESPONSES 70

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106 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.7 In terms of photography activity in Wales, 4.7.5 There should be a shared strategy across Wales do you agree/disagree with the following? for the future development of photography activity

2% 1% 1% 2% 7.5% 6.5% 13.4% 15.9% 12.4% 38.3% 80

4 2 2 4 15 13 27 32 25 77 RESPONSES 70

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PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 107 4.7 In terms of photography activity in Wales, 4.7.6 other / comments do you agree/disagree with the following? (other / comments) (Page 1 of 2) 22 responses

A lot more needs to be in North Wales I have no experience or understanding regarding current photography funding in Wales so unable to answer regarding that. My experience of photography in Wales is within Pembrokeshire where there are no No comment specialist photo galleries, no photo exhibitions beyond sunset pictures etc, and no courses available beyond daytime courses at the local college or exorbitantly-priced stylised landscape and wildlife courses with In many ways the model for how photography in Wales might develop outlined by Alistair Crawford in his private tutors. It would be great to have even a modicum of the opportunities available to engage with 1976 Planet article is still pertinent: A National Centre for Photography that commissioned, organised and photography in Pembrokeshire that there are in Cardiff, or even Bristol or London. I would assume the exhibited photography exhibitions that would be available to tour throughout a circuit of venues in Wales situation is very similar across Wales. and beyond. It would have its own archive and collection available for research and would publish books and magazines reflecting photographic activity in Wales. Even now over 40 years later that one National Centre Over the last few years, much has been done to develop the photographic communities in Wales. Some as he envisioned it is still unlikely to materialise so one has to work with what exists. improvements have been made, however, there is plenty of space for still further improvement. As you rightly point out in the introduction to this survey the diversity and breadth of activity in Wales does 'not necessarily share a common purpose'and indeed asks whether this 'common purpose'is desirable or I don't have a broad enough picture of what is happening within Wales and that probably indicates bias achievable. I would tend to concur with the latter although I would still argue that institutions/structures towards certain geographic areas (Cardiff for example) and approaches (curator driven, etc.) which exclude need to be in place for people to tap into, whatever their photographic allegiances may be. I also believe it is those on the periphery.Whilst I could do more to inform myself, sources of information and contact are not important to recognise what activities are taking place, and why, without imposing some form of top-down that available.As a fine artist as well as a photographer I have found it much easier to network with and make culture. contact with contemporary artists - perhaps photography covers such a spectrum that it is not so easy to All too often curators, and I'm not just talking photography ones, have become preoccupied with their own reconcile the variety of approaches. reputations without actually examining what's actually taking place at grass-roots level, which is not the same thing as abandoning standards. As an individual documentary photographer working in and around Cardiff, and elsewhere, I'm not entirely As I read/view Offline and Ffoton I think I can understand some of the frustrations that went into embarking sure what a 'shared strategy for the future'is, but it should benefit those areas outside of Cardiff. on those projects in the first place. However, and imagining myself as an outsider standing back at some distance, I would now look at those ventures and conclude that Photography in Wales was in fact relatively There should be more visible/accessible local activities around photography healthy: major shows at The National Museum (with packed openings); burgeoning collectives of younger I think sharing ideas about strategies can be fruitful, but all just acting out 1 strategy cd be stifling of photographers; a circuit of independent galleries; ffotogallery's educational courses; bi-annual festivals in creativity and flexibility. Aberystwyth, North Wales and Cardiff; an online resource in the shape of Ffoton and the journal Offline; photographer/artist Helen Sear representing Wales at the Venice Bienale and some world class University Same people, from outside of Wales ruling the scene and Research departments. Perhaps that view is too rose-tinted given, as has been stated elsewhere, the paucity of photography books on Wales and the feelings of disenfranchisement still felt by some; that there There are plenty of clubs, galleries, colleges etc involved in photography in Wales, with little apparent is no 'photographic scene'in Wales. communication between them all.They all have different agendas, e.g. the competition driven WPF clubs, and I am highly privileged of having had a University education in Wales in photography and of having been that should continue to ensure a diversity of photographic output in Wales. However, some cross-fertilisation, involved in ffotogallery in it's early days. I've had the support that has allowed me to continue my practice, whether through meetings or a magazine would improve the quality of photography in general. off and on, over the years. But you have to put yourself into the mind of the 19 year old student or recently retired teacher who finds themselves more and more interested in photography.Where do they go to for the This might be a good idea, but who would be the officials of such task and might this become even more advice and encouragement they may desire and which would best suit their needs? We all need problematic in bias / funding etc. It would be interesting to hear people’s thoughts on such strategy. However I encouragement from time to time but perhaps none more so than during those early years. Similarly apart feel this kind of thing might contradict the freedom of creative expression and individual interests? from educational provision there is also the reassurance that comes from feeling that you are not working in a vacuum and that comes from the wider community.This is a highly personal thing. For me, I only need to I think the photographic community in Wales is stronger than in England, more supportive of each other touch base now and then to feel part of that community. Others may wish for more prolonged exposure in and less self indulgent, as a outsider it appears to be fragmented , we have not achieved the community stage order to nurture their aspirations and engagement with that community, whether that be on an informal or yet, everyone is too busy standing on each other, crazy ! formal basis. Hence the need for institutions/structures to allow for that -which although not perfect, do exist.

108 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.7 In terms of photography activity in Wales, 4.7.6 other / comments do you agree/disagree with the following? (other / comments) (Page 2 of 2) 22 responses

Promote quality

Photography activity in Wales is good and should continue as it is * even good no reason not to improve!

From the 'outside'it feels like most funding opportunities are available to a small group of well established photographers

4.7.1 is 2 questions. Quality is good = yes, should continue as it is = no there could always be more.

Show photos.

Strategy depends on whether organisation is a Charity or Non Profit Making or Commercial

Photographers have and always will create their own opportunities. But institutions need to support quality work whenever it emerges.

Provide courses on darkroom technique, as film sales are rising every year.

Rather than a strategy and coordination, is there a way to gather groups under one umbrella?

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 109 Context

Photography is enjoying increased attention and popularity in recent years. Easier and affordable access to cameras and ways of capturing and 4.8 displaying images continue to develop at pace for both professionals and enthusiasts alike.

Across Wales there are many talented photographers making interesting FINAL QUESTION! work on their own, as part of an informal group or member of a formalised entity. We therefore have communities of photographers around Wales but What would be the one thing might there interest and scope for more collaboration between them? Some might take the view that everything is ticking along nicely. Others might disagree. We believe a survey such as this is the perfect vehicle to you'd suggest that would help actuallyask photographers across Wales what they think and gather the responses in one place for all to consider. develop the photography Question 4.8 asked survey respondents to suggest one thing that, in their opinion, would help develop the photography community in Wales going forward. community in Wales We have included all responses that were more than one character and/or in the future? attempted to form a sentence!.

Question 4.8 Results Summary

A wealth of views, ideas and suggestions covering a range of topics on how the photography community throughout Wales might be developed moving forward were submitted, and these form a fitting conclusion to the survey.

Encouragingly, the positive and constructive responses significantly outweigh the negative and more cynical.

110 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.8 FINAL QUESTION! (Page 1 of 6) What would be the one thing you'd suggest that would help develop the photography community in Wales in the future? 196 responses

Ways of getting people involved. I only found out about you via social media retweets of stuff you'd posted; Establish more opportunities for amateur/student photographers to get together and create no matter the making a good resource online to find out about stuff happening as a destination for people who have found skill level, a collaborative effort from all involved. Photographers have a reputation for being standoffish but something out on social media is a good idea. SO they can follow the trail to eg find out more about film- if given an opportunity to support others by sharing their knowledge could lead to fresh and new ways of making or landscape photography or street photography or exhibitions or tutorials or events near them. So a creating. I believe that has to be a good thing. Our world is constantly evolving so maybe photography should Welsh photography website as a hub for all of this is great and maybe that aspect can be expanded upon. I'm too? If large galleries nurtured the local community of photographers more then you could see those have an happy to run events if there's a bit of support with stuff I find heavy going (like marketing...) been thinking of opportunity that they possibly wouldn't have otherwise. Mentor programs would be a practical direction too. doing a 24 hour film challenge or a low budget indie film festival in Welshpool for example, but would be You see famous photographers offering mentor programs for an extortionate cost, maybe funding could be happy to do something stills-photography based as well. I have run tutorials and festivals before, run clubs given for mentors to offer their experience and have the expenses covered for both parties. and so on, and have professional experience lecturing and teaching at University and Post-Graduate level. Drop me a line to***********@***.***if I can be of help. I don't live in Wales. My Evans family left Wales in the 1700's, so I don't know what is really going on there. Here in the states there are plenty of people interested in photography, but funding is always the problem. I think the community lacks coherence. I don't mean that it should become homogenised, but I think the Great work is usually seen here at major museums, which are all currently closed. Photography books were my politicking and cliques do more harm than good. I think a hub, or series of hubs that included physical greatest source of seeing good work in the 1970's when I started, Creative Camera out of London, Camera facilities such as dark rooms and WIP exhibition spaces are missing from the Welsh photography scene. In my Magazine out of Lucerne, Switzerland. Could you do a knock out magazine twice a year? I would pay for that. I experience these spaces encourage productive and collegiate dialogue, as well as the sharing of ideas and take Aperture here, and pay for that.And I buy photography books. In the end there will always be certain experience.There are also a host of talented local photographers in Wales. I'm sure hub(s) such as this could photographers making new pictures no matter what.They are driven to do so. Go find them in Wales. If you make good use of offering workshops hosted by these photographers.That would fund key social players as don't find them,you have a problem. well as giving back to and encouraging the community. Ultimately I think Wales has a very rich photography "scene"and tradition, that is damaged by lack of funding opportunities (or lack of funding distribution), and Rather than a heavily loaded questionnaires like this one, which asks people to choose between named apathy which is probably exacerbated by politics. organisations and different approaches/models, there needs to be more open and transparent discussion about what is happening in Wales, for the benefit of whom, and what the future landscape of photography and Ability to network, make connection, critique one another's work, provide self-help support outside of the photographic practice looks like.There is nothing in this questionnaire about emergent practice, diversity, establishment. Offline magazine would seem a good conduit for this.There is something about printed matter inclusion, the audience perspective, or indeed an acknowledgement that a divided photographic sector is a that allows you to engage with it which digital versions do not have. Maybe we are too drawn into the digital weaker one. As I come to expect from Ffoton, here is also no acknowledgement of the positive achievements world and some old fashioned approaches would cut through, thinking of workshops such as the of organisations like the one I lead, artistic or in terms of audience development, often against the odds and Photographer's Place where Paul Hill brought in practitioners such as Ray Moore,Tom Cooper, Ralph Gibson, through imaginative ideas and hard graft. or setting up independent groups across the country, which seems to be happening, allowing self-curation outside of the fashionable, career building establishment offerings. Maybe opportunities to make work This is the most important question in your survey. I'd go for an active network - one that shares a single together, either collaboratively or individually but as part of an outing.That's more than one thing, sorry :) ethos (the intrinsic value of photography perhaps) that everyone, no matter what kind of photographer they categorise themselves as can identify with.The network to act as a voice and advocate for individuals, and the Communication between groups, removing elitist behaviour and especially attitudes against other sector as a whole in all its guises and with all its ambitions.Thank you for enabling people to articulate their organisation on social network.I understand every group is different and has it own agenda, that is what vision, and for there to be joined-up thinking about what the future can be. Other people in the visual arts in makes the network exciting but that is not an excuse to be intolerant of other people or actively bad mouth Wales are doing the same thing: National Contemporary Art Gallery Wales (Arts Council of Wales,Amgueddfa other people or groups it only makes the welsh scene look petty and elitist. more inclusion and understanding, Cymru - National Museum Wales,Welsh Government); Visual Arts Galleries Wales = 2 examples. Good luck exhibiting, showing work from different groups, towns, different groups meeting and talking about ideas, good analysing the results! practice, opportunities and even exhibiting outside of wales.Talking.

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 111 4.8 FINAL QUESTION! (Page 2 of 6) What would be the one thing you'd suggest that would help develop the photography community in Wales in the future?

Engage with WPF clubs and get them (us!) out of a rut - of presenters then local people acting as Judges in Engage with actual professional photographers and artists in North Wales as well as the South. Hold too-frequent competitions.These judges are well meant but poorly educated in photographic and art terms meetings, shows and workshops in the North as well as the South. Definitely engage with professionals but they affect the tenor of photography in Wales because club members are trying to keep them happy for shooting commercial, advertising, industrial & fine art, as well as editorial & photojournalism and lets try and 75% of the time.There is so little innovation in club photography.To do well you have either to take a photo steer clear of this dreary'contemporary documentary'is the only way approach :-( as if replicating a Fine Art image or produce the sort of dynamic computer composite that only graphic artists can do well. But hey, it's a similar complaint to those held in the 1920s! A fair and shared access to funding throughout Wales.This should not be targeted as those who complete an education or indeed or associated with Documentary qualifications.A mixed bag of available funding. In An agreed respect between all organisations and peoples.While critical conversations are useful and addition, I like to see a representative body in Wales targeted at Professional Photographers offering help, everyone should be questioned and pushed to ensure the best for photography in Wales, there can be a dark support and funding if required. under current from people, especially toxic on social media that is not beneficial to the community, and has left it fractured. On top of this, an agreed method of ensuring Wales are promoting Welsh photography, while More investment into welsh based photography instead parachuted practitioners from elsewhere with little also celebrating Wales as a leading photography community by showcasing works of artists from around the knowledge of welsh society and culture.Too often in the past, famous international photographers arrive, are world given a local photographer as a native guide, and then proceed to mop up many locations, producing superficial work in the process. Greater diversity and maybe a move away from the usual suspects. Facilitate a means to broaden the voices that are heard and the photographs that are seen in settings as described above in the questionnaire.A move North Wales has a good photographic base but is a little fragmented. Oriel Colwyn has done a great job to towards greater diversity would be welcomed.All kinds of people live in Wales and it is important that they get the community together along with the Eye.We need more informal get togethers at a suitable location so are represented.As whispers of independence are heard now is the time to try and figure out what it might that like minded people can share and discuss projects and provide mutual support and differing look like and who we will be as a country moving forward. perspectives.

An event which helped bring together the disparate communities that make up photography in Wales. it Training/learning opportunities and exhibitions across Wales, allowing current photographers to deepen/ would have to reach out to those for whom photography primarily means Instagram etc. My fantasy panel of broaden their interest and provide an access point for others to engage with and consider photography for the experts would range from Martin Parr (can elicit Marmite responses) through Charlie Waite (landscape first time.Also, a series of informal regional meetups so photographers can form bonds with each other. photographer of the year competition creator) to fellows of the Royal Society. Not necessarily Welsh but living in different worlds. I suspect it would be a disaster! Sadly its all about money, grass roots development not a elite club , diversity, opportunity and equality, easier said than done ! I envy the scene in Wales , many of those in the South of England appear to have A dynamic organisation that reaches out to *all* photographers in Wales, of all abilities, regularly staging ambitions to disappear deep inside themselves , good luck ! events and workshops, plus exhibitions and festivals that enhance the work of photographers living and working here. I think what I have in mind is Ffoton, but with a far bigger role. It certainly has absolutely the A national museum of modern art for Wales should be established, that placed photography at its core but right ethos. I can't help feeling that Ffotogallery has a tendency to be exclusive, with only a limited offering. also worked alongside the national museum, ffotogallery and other smaller galleries to develop a programme Just my opinion! of photographic exhibitions and collections development.

Ffotogallery to develop a solid framework for developing work across Wales. Perhaps in partnership with Working together to develop a positive, supportive, forward thinking community, one where creatives National Library (which is looking to extend it'd reach beyond Aber), the Museum and Universities (9 spread promote each other and help provide opportunities for one and other.This in my opinion would be highly out across Wales).As it is, Ffotogallery seems too busy chasing the external funding (against a backdrop of productive and would see our photographic community flourish falling public funding), which takes its focus outside the country.Also, some of the curatorial choices are Bring the various networks and organisations together to share resources/knowledge and ideas now and incredibly dull. then. Not just about the art of photography and sharing work but in tackling political/policy/financial issues Getting less well known photographers shown, to much hype is built up around documentary style that obstruct photographers from doing their work. photography, which in my opinion shows very little technical skill, its basically just point and shoot stuff.There Promote a greater interest in analogue B & W darkroom work, instead of assuming that everyone is only are so many photographers like myself trying to get noticed and always come up against the proverbial brick interested in digital photography. Sales of film are increasing, and this should be taken account of when wall wall when you say you're a landscape photographer. Galleries and exhibition spaces need to acknowledge organising courses for the public. us.

112 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.8 FINAL QUESTION! (Page 3 of 6) What would be the one thing you'd suggest that would help develop the photography community in Wales in the future?

More diversity, more contemporary and young artists, less focus on historical work, less links to David Hurn Raise the focus on regional areas to balance the activity and attention on Cardiff. (Clarification: That is not and Martin Parr, a more pragmatic and less capitalist approach to the art that seems to dominate throughout to reduce any resources in the capital, just balance it with other areas.) (inc.This survey). I may be biased since I don't live in Wales but I would engage more in International connections, because Marketing in Wales is very poor. I have found in the past I have missed so many events due to lack of not much of what goes on in Wales reach us and gets the attention it deserves marketing or have stumbled across events by accident. Maybe one place where anyone for free could advertise an photographic event? An online forum to discuss exhibitions, opportunities, social events and anything photography related in Wales. More funding opportunities for up and coming photographers in Wales. More talks at informal friendly places, not always in 'artistic spaces'.I think that puts a lot of people off. Perhaps monthly meetings to show latest works and prints to get feedback? Overall there needs to be more of Paid for / credited for / acknowledgement for hard work. No more pirates , 2 second glancers , those who a community. expect it all for free. Chances to publish books / own collections ?

A Welsh governing body related to photography similar to the RPS. I have degrees in photography and I Spread out away from Cardiff, connect somehow all the places photography happens and work together on think they should be widely recognised instead of just what the RPS offer.This way more students would be a theme or project. Include everyone from every type of background encouraged to join More funding as long as it has a transparency of its application.A variety of organisations would be best. A broader connection between the photography community and photographic university courses.Those Particularly impressed with cv of Bronwen Colquhoun at NMW. links would help sustain the future of all photography In Wales and provide valuable insight to students interested In the craft. Making it more accessible to everyone, less snobby, and teaching people what photographic art actually is. We need more gallery space and more confidence as a nation! Encouraging the so-called photography community in Wales to be more aware of the wider community, people living in Wales and their way of life and what is important to them and how photography may have A joined up network meeting quarterly with all the photo/arts orgs venues in welsh to discuss exhibitions some relevance for them. and logistics and cultural poverty that wales struggles with

More free opportunities. Often those involved in photography don't have any spare income to invest in Continued support for Ffoton and Offline, perhaps with regional socials for discussion, showing new works, learning opportunities. Especially since photography equipment is quite expensive, not to mention upkeep working towards regional/national exhibition(s)? and printing. A lot of Welsh photographers have left Wales on the hunt for work, maybe a project that helps bring Welsh Make photography open to all (young or old) who want to learn, improve and share skills and experience. photographers together outside the principality It’s not about what ‘kit’you have but about developing a photographers eye regardless of background. Difficult one! Still believe there should be more work commissioned through grants and bursaries, but that More places for general public to show and see photography for free, and a wider range of work on show, not might help the whole community of course. not just documentary/fine art. More accessible, mainstream work that appeals to a broad audience. Reward talent regardless of race, gender, age etc award funding to individuals who show a real flair, I've never been to a photo festival like the Eye etc. I've heard good reports about these events. If it was dedication and long term interest in image making. more centrally located with a trade fair then that would be a start to gel people together. Involvement with people/organisations aligned with Wales-based photography projects/artists is Removal of the perceived barriers between 'Camera Clubs'and academia,WPF to open their eyes to the important, no matter where they are physically located. obvious bias they exhibit towards the pictorial and embrace other forms of photography A healthy and democratic environment of collaboration rather than competition would be a plus in Some vehicle for raising general awareness of photography activities in Wales - exhibitions, education, improving efficiency to what should be a common goal. meetings, etc -with a portal/notice board of where to go for further information. Longer term funding for smaller venues, collectives & projects based in the community to encourage young people who cannot access formal education.

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 113 4.8 FINAL QUESTION! (Page 4 of 6) What would be the one thing you'd suggest that would help develop the photography community in Wales in the future?

More work and activities to develop Welsh talent and show their work - too much focus by Ffotogallery on A social media platform that any photographer of any level can join and share images/thoughts international commissions and exhibiting National online database of photographers by area and the promoting on social media of such. Easier access to the community - maybe one over arching organisation that people can get all the info they need about workshop, training etc. Shout louder about things that are going on, I often miss things/events/exhibitions/etc!

A properly funded hub to encourage and facilitate communications and collaborations between everyone Amplification of what is already here.And infrastructure improvements to connect us up. involved in photography across Wales. More money for artists, especially helping up and coming photographers and young artists I think meet ups are key. Maybe there could be an organisation that organises monthly meetups but each month in a different region. How to access funding and better promotion of work undertaken in Wales by funded bodies

Greater outreach to ALL regions and accessibility/opportunity for public funding/exhibition/publication. A Ffotogallery membership club with meet ups, group projects and in house competitions And NOT Cardiff-centric. I don't believe that there is a single community that could be developed by one thing.

A critical mass of photographic opportunities and events spread throughout the country, not concentrated A more geographically spread approach and more support for photography in the North. in a few locations. More opportunities for meeting fellow photographers to learn from and discuss ideas. More public investment in local photography facilities, spaces - especially areas that have very little access to the arts Far more focus on Welsh/living in Wales photographers and work produced in Wales

Link with new and young emerging talent more because there is a tendency to see older more established Making photography as an art form more popular (with so-called non photographers) photographers work Wider cross community/organisation cooperation and facilitation and fewer cliques More events and exhibitions that are within different regions, so more people have a chose and are able to attend them More local events, talks by specialists other than birds on sticks or landscapes

Continue as it is... autonomous. Let those that want to take photos, let them do it! If they want to, they will! Continuing A multi-prong approach -websites, competitions, zines, podcasts etc.

Availability of funding, grants, and having the National Assembly on board, and NOT driven by Ffotogallery. More outreach, workshops, events collaborations, organisations working together

More inclusivity. In my option there is a very tiered community within the photography community in wales. For people to join the Royal Photographic Society and not stick in Camera Clubs

More info to be available to people to starting out on non public funded freelance photographic careers I’ve no idea, since I’ve never felt like I’m part of a “photography community”

More access to photography as both a commercial and art medium for people of lower income backgrounds. Less f***ing bull shit and create strong work! Less talk, just get on with it!

More light on those who may struggle to get into the industry or get gallery space, such as students. An individual heading an organisation with a deep commitment to photography.

More events that bring people interested in photography together (sorry, that's not very specific) Better funding and support for complete and ongoing projects based in Wales

Get people at a young age to discover photography so they can have a better understanding of it. Make learning about photography and all its different genre more accessible

More accessibility to the process of curating and organising exhibitions for young practitioners More outward looking, less insular and less obsession/focus with the past

114 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 4.8 FINAL QUESTION! (Page 5 of 6) What would be the one thing you'd suggest that would help develop the photography community in Wales in the future?

High quality workshops. Forward thinking clubs not the traditional stance More classes in schools to increase photography The revival of Third Floor Gallery

We as photographers need to get more non photographers involved to grow An online resource for education and exhibiting More local or touring exhibitions.

Easier way for photographers to be aware of groups available to them. Valleys (and wider South Wales) project 2020's Any promotion in north west Wales

Maybe a broader appealing international festival based in Cardiff. Cooperation of all groups mentioned in survey More engagement at a younger age

MORE OPPORTUNITIES TO MEET UP AND DISCUSS NEW FORMS OF PHOTOGRAPHY More in social media about events and courses More activities for young people

Invite more top world class photographers to events/talks to Wales Join one of the clubs and societies in Wales Don't have it all in South Wales

Increased online Instagram presence (currently mostly on twitter) More exhibitions and a push for photography Include north Wales far more.

Working on themed exhibitions dealing with contemporary issues. Bring a wider group together in North Wales Increase use of Social Media.

Always more shoes in as large a variety of places as possible More frequent exhibitions in my local area Less concentration on Cardiff

Arts council strategy for development of photography in Wales More solo gallery exhibitions availability Find more local photographers

More widely publicised information on photographic activities More engagement with younger photographers hire more women photographers

Get the TV channels involved to bring it to a wider audience Publicity and accessibility to the medium Being less precious about it.

Profile, events, greater collaboration to mutual benefit. I don't feel qualified to comment on this More variety of work on show

Opportunities to engage with photography / Photographers Opportunities to exhibit and production More investment in the north

A lot more workshops and free competition and mentoring Support for local independent galleries More training opportunities

An appreciation of work made in Wales and about Wales More forward looking, less looking back Don't know enough to answer

Communication, central data base. Information shared. Increased media coverage especially TV More photography exhibitions

More workshops around Wales to help encourage people. Exhibitions and spaces to exhibit in. Accessible meeting venues

Greater education in photography starting in schools Get involved with like minded people Web based information hub

An annual of welsh photography would be a great idea Strong and dynamic online presence. Regular regional meetings

Encourage/include more diverse voices & approaches Parity in funding with other arts. Less condescending views

More funded workshops and opportunities to learn A biennial international festival. A common theme each year

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 115 4.8 FINAL QUESTION! (Page 6 of 6) What would be the one thing you'd suggest that would help develop the photography community in Wales in the future?

More emphasis on regions Less incest.

Get kids more involved Social media

More photography shows Basic income

Education programmes. Publications

Photography workshops Bilingualism

More college funding Advertising

Better collaboration More events

Brian to take over! Sponsorship

More Collaborations Don’t know

social media posts See 4.7.6

Sharing Knowledge. Not sure

More in the north Mentors

Online community Access

National Themes N/A

More workshops No

More publicity

No suggestions

Stop bitching

Less politics

Decentralise!

Find funding!

Take photos.

116 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 117 5. Appendix

118 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 5.1 Survey Introduction as it appeared online

Photography in Wales - a 2020 Survey

INTRODUCTION

We invite you to contribute your views to inform a new discussion on the future development of photography in Wales. As Ffoton passes its first five years of activity it seems appropriate to not only take stock of what it has contributed and its current activities, but also reimagine its role - individually and collaboratively - in the ongoing development of photography in Wales. Having provided practicing photographers and emerging talent with a platform to talk about their work and careers, Ffoton now turns to both those who have engaged with it and the wider photography community to ask what should be next, where should priorities lie and how might they be delivered?

BACKGROUND

It is recognised that, whilst there are pockets of excellence in photographic provision, the breadth of activity in Wales does not necessarily share a common purpose. Indeed, it may be impossible, or even undesirable, to achieve such purpose within diverse photography communities. Under the broad umbrella of Welsh Photography, there are national institutions and agencies, publicly and privately funded galleries, camera clubs, professional and amateur photographers, students and many individuals who may not seek to align themselves with any of the above. Each may have their own views, ideas or vision of how photography could/should develop in the future. We think it's important to hear those views.

As we move into a new decade in 2020, Ffoton believes it now makes sense to start an all-Wales conversation with some basic questions. Combined, these questions form a survey to explore whether a common purpose can indeed exist - and if it can, allow us to work collaboratively with others to determine what it might look like and how it might be enacted to the benefit of more photography 5. Appendix and more photographers across Wales. We encourage you to go through the following questions slowly and honestly: your personal experiences, observations and interests in photography will provide important and meaningful input. There may be sections where you feel a worthy question hasn’t been raised or have a particular comment you would like to make. In such instances we encourage you to make use of the ‘other’ fields at the end of each question to record short or detailed comments.

This survey will open to responses 9am 15 February and close midnight 31 May 2020. Ffoton will then collect all responses and compile the anonymised data into a draft document and invite four independent representatives to work with us in creating a final report to be unveiled at The EYE International Photography Festival in Aberystwyth on Friday 9 October 2020 and published online that same weekend.

Any meaningful discussion has to be based on as extensive a consultation as possible and the evaluation of wide-ranging views, experiences and suggestions from photographers and others involved with or interested in photography. Please share this survey link with others you know have an interest in photography in Wales and ask them to share it further.

Your response to this survey is important and will remain completely anonymous in any resulting analysis and published findings which, we believe, should be shared widely. We only ask for your email address to help validate your response as genuine however it will NOT be shared with others or used beyond this purpose.

Thank you for taking part. Have your say!

PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 119 5.2 Photography groups & organisations in Wales (active at time of Survey)

Arts Council of Wales Welsh Government-sponsored body for Arts development and funding www.arts.wales Basement Collective Collective www.instagram.com/basementcollective

Carmarthen Photographic Society Membership Society www.carmarthenphotographicsociety.co.uk

Ffotogallery National development agency for photography and lens-based media in Wales www.ffotogallery.org

Ffotogaleri y gofeb Gallery (Machynlleth) www.ffotogaleriygofeb.co.uk

Ffoton Podcast & Website promoting photographers & photography in Wales www.ffoton.wales Found Gallery Gallery (Brecon) www.foundgallery.co.uk Inside the Outside Collective www.inside-the-outside.com

National Library of Wales National Collections & Exhibitions www.library.wales

National Museum Wales National Collections & Exhibitions www.museum.wales

North Wales Photographic Association Body representing Camera Clubs in North Wales https://nwpa.co.uk

North Wales Project Collective www.instagram.com/thenorthwalesproject

Offline Journal Printed Journal on contemporary Welsh photography www.offline.wales

Oriel Colwyn Gallery (Colwyn) orielcolwyn.org

Phrame Collective www.instagram.com/phramewales

Royal Photographic Society Membership Society https://rps.org/regions/south-wales

Thru The Lens Gallery Gallery (Hay-on-Wye) www.thruthelens.photography

Tilt & Shift Gallery & Workshop (Llanrwst) www.tiltandshiftphotography.co.uk

Valley Ffocws Collective https://twitter.com/ValleyFfocws/photo Welsh Photographic Federation Body representing Camera Clubs in South Wales www.thewpf.co.uk

Workers Gallery Gallery (Ynyshir, Rhondda) www.workersgallery.co.uk

Notes 1.The abovel ist is by no means exhaustive but attempts to gather those organisations mentioned in survey respondent comments and others Ffoton is currently aware of. 2.Ffoton will now carry this list on its website and welcome submissions on other groups and organisations in or emerging in Wales to build and keep this list accurate and hopefully prove useful to the wider photography community. 3.For individual Camera Clubs in Wales,we suggest visiting the websites of The Welsh Photographic Federation and the North Wales Photographic Association in the first instance.

120 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results 121 Giving a voice to photographers in Wales

www.ffoton.wales

122 PhotographySurveyWales 2020 –Results