The Farrier

The Farrier

Matthew’s latest project, The Farrier, is a photographic documentary, recording the work of a self-employed farrier who works in and around the Lambourn Downs. In a departure from Matthew’s signature style of expansive, spacious and immersive landscapes, architectural photographs and travel images, Matthew has instead opted to use a small and fast rangefinder camera to enable him to react and move with the speed of the scenes unfolding before him. Using only the natural light available, fixed focal length lenses and very shallow depth of field Matthew is able to capture the beauty and atmosphere of the activity and the surroundings.

‘The Farrier’ tells the story in photographs of a series of days spent with Andy Eadie, in the cold depths of winter, 2013.  Working in the racing yards, livery yards and private stables, Andy’s work takes place out of view of all but those that either own or work with the horses. Matthew’s work not only documents the artisan craftsman at work, but captures the textures, colours and fabric of the stables, as well as hinting at the quietly intimate relationship Andy develops with the horses he works with.

In a world where the horse and jockey are frequently photographed at events, Matthew’s work presents a view that is rarely seen or presented to the public – his photographs not only documenting the process but creating compelling and moving images that are as much at home on a gallery wall, as they are in a book.

The work will be on show at the:

• Vale & Downland Museum, Wantage – 14th January – 8th February 2014
• Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot – 26th April – 6th June 2014

The book, exhibition catalogue & ebook are now available from Blurb Books by clicking here.