It seems I write this for every new post in this category, but Alys Tomlinson is really a new name for me.
Alys Tomlinson is a British photographer known for her evocative and research-driven projects that explore the intersection of people, place, and identity. Born in 1975, Tomlinson grew up in Brighton, UK, and later studied English literature and communications at the University of Leeds. Her journey into photography began with a Pentax 35mm film camera gifted by her father, and she eventually pursued formal training at Central Saint Martins College of Art and Design.
Tomlinson’s work is characterized by its profound engagement with her subjects and settings. Her projects often span years and involve extensive research, drawing from literature, poetry, and historical documents to enrich her visual storytelling.
One of her most acclaimed projects, “Ex-Voto” (2019), captures the essence of Christian pilgrimage sites in Europe, such as Lourdes in France, Ballyvourney in Ireland, and Grabarka in Poland. The series features stark monochrome portraits of pilgrims, large format landscapes, and still lifes of offerings left at these sacred sites. The serene calmness and reverence captured in these images earned her the Photographer of the Year award at the 2018 Sony World Photography Awards.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Tomlinson turned her lens closer to home with “Lost Summer” (2020), a poignant series of black-and-white portraits of young people in North London. These portraits, taken in gardens and local parks, depict teenagers dressed in prom attire, capturing the poignancy of a summer lost to lockdowns and cancelled events.
Her latest project, “Gli Isolani” (The Islanders), documents traditional costumes and masks worn during festivals and celebrations on the islands of the Venetian lagoon, Sicily, and Sardinia. This project continues her exploration of identity and tradition, showcasing the vibrant and almost theatrical aspects of island life.
Tomlinson’s photography is not just about capturing moments but about telling stories that resonate with the viewer. Her work invites us to reflect on the deeper connections between people and their environments, offering a window into worlds both familiar and foreign.
