Bideford
Most of my work and inspiration has undoubtedly evolved and been gleamed from the incredible rugged North Atlantic coastline, from the mesmerising seascapes and the lush green countryside which never fails to enthuse my desire to re-create it through Art and Photography.
As the seasons move from Autumn to Winter and from Spring to Summer Photography captivated by my environment. There is always something that catches my eye and I see the potential for a photograph or a piece of art work.
I could reiterated over and over again how my motivation comes from my immediate environment but as many of my journeys commence and finish in Bideford I decided that it might be a good idea to focus on this underestimated market town.
I think many people will agree that there is nothing better than venturing back across the Torridge Bridge and looking down the river to see that all familiar town of Bideford especially if you have been away for a while. It gives a sense of comfort and familiarity and has a charismatic quality which many towns will never achieve.
Saturated with a history which many people are not aware this historical market town situated on the banks of the river Torridge and only a few miles from the Atlantic coast is full of little surprises around every corner.
Bideford is located around the prominent iconic structure of the 13th century long bridge with its infamous 24 arches and was famously named the Little White Town by Charles Kingsley who wrote the novel Westward Ho!
We can appreciate the notion of Kingsley if we travel across the old bridge from East the Water and observe the superb architecture and the predominantly white buildings, and scrutinise the pure historic ambience which surrounds this town.
The views have changed very little since the era of Charles kingsley when he penned his well known novel over 150 years ago and although the quay has been modernised and restructured in recent years it still provides us with that sense of charm and attraction which we either love or hate.
Over looked by the modern Torridge Bridge this busy market town was once one of the larges ports during the 16th century and although not as large today it is still a busy and thriving port. The quayside is regularly frequented by fishing boats, cargo boats and the HMS Oldenburg who makes regular trips to and from Lundy.
As an artist and photographer I am overwhelmed by the multitude of opportunities that this town bestows. There is nothing better than wandering along the quayside and surveying the picturesque river and its surroundings especially in the early morning. Its ever changing vista, its seasonal sunsets and sunrises and the wonderful reflections and night scapes are all aspects of this town which give a magical aura.
A lovely place to visit in 2021.