Jo Spense

Jo Spense is a pioneering British photographer, she worked on projects right up to her death in 1992. What initially attracted me to Spense's work is the challenge she faced battling cancer and how she used photography as a sort of therapy for what she was going through. Spense captured moments for her treatment in 'real' way, she used the environments that became her own whilst she recieved treatment. The hospital being the place where her challenge was the most focused.

I have since gone on to read "Cultural Snipings" which is a book of her work's and projects that have been put together by a friend. The book is very interesting and gives an insight into the life she led right up until her death.

Photo Therapy is a key concept discussed by Spense- the idea that taking photographs has the ability to heal. I believe that the challenge project has been healing in some way for the participants, talking about your struggles can't be a bad thing I'm sure. My thought was that having to think about the challenges we face would have a ppositive effect on how we view our lives. I am also hoping that my project will in some way prompt an emotive response or have an effect, either in me or in the reader? Maybe. We'll see...