“It gave me such a buzz… an incredible feeling of fulfilment. In a way, it was what got me through the dark times”
For the photographer, Andrew Mason, the opportunity to showcase his own work at a London gallery for the very first time, proved to be such a life-changing experience that he decided to ditch middle-management-career-banality in favour of launching his own photography exhibition.
In 2016, Mason – who despite graduating in genetics now enjoys a successful career as a professional photographer – took a leap of faith by booking a small gallery off Brick Lane and filled it with the work of 15 exhibitors.
His mission? To give other enthusiasts from all over the world, be it pro, semi-pro, independent or amateur, the opportunity to show off their work in a high-profile city location. And perhaps they too would feel that same delicious jolt of “exhibitor’s pride”.
And so, The London Photo Show was born.
2018 saw the third year of the exhibition grow to the heady heights of the South Bank’s Bargehouse Gallery, and so successful was this new and larger venue, that year after year the show returned even throughout a global pandemic!
This year is no different. The London Photo Show is set to make its 2022 return to the Oxo Tower Wharf venue in a matter of weeks. From October 13th up to 80 photographers will be able to take their place at the heart of the capital’s “least pretentious” art exhibition.
For Andrew, who now resides in Battersea having deviated south from his Warrington roots, the show’s founding ethos is one of inclusivity, accessibility, and personal fulfilment.
“For me, this is an event that celebrates photography as an art form but it’s also about recognising the wonderful feeling that comes from displaying your work for others to enjoy. I like to joke that The London Photo Show is the least ostentatious exhibition you’ll find in the capital!
“I remember during the show’s first year, one of the contributors came up to me and said: ‘Now I can call myself a proper photographer!’ and for me, that’s what it’s all about: pride, satisfaction, and achievement. Anyone that wants to display their work, can. We are providing that platform to them at a reasonable price.
“For visitors, there’s an absolute visual smorgasbord to take in – all genres will feature, from portraiture, fine art, wildlife, architecture, fashion, nature, travel, sport, reportage, and landscape. It’s a totally eclectic collection and spectator entry is free.”
For a man so passionate about sharing the joy of photography, the 47-year-old is rather more matter of fact about his kit. Day-to-day you’ll find a trusty Nikon D750 nestled in his palm: “It’s a tool that I use to get the job done – I’m not emotionally attached to it.”
However, he does get rather more misty-eyed when talking of his father’s 1960s Agfa Isolette which accompanies him on trips abroad: “It’s beautiful…a real vintage workhorse that has seen many corners of the world. In fact, it helped me capture the most stunning image of Jordan that currently has pride of place on my living room wall.”
Bargehouse Gallery, Oxo Tower Wharf, South Bank, London SE1 9PH from 13th – 16th October. Admission: Free.
For more information please visit: https://londonphotoshow.org/
