THOUGH colour can add a powerful dimension to an image, so can monochrome.
And there are photographers who love to show off their skills in this most dramatic of mediums.
Images Of The Night provides a fascinating theme for the next exhibition at Batley Art Gallery and an opportunity to see more of the work of the Yorkshire Monochrome Group.
It is four years since their work was last seen in Batley. Now they are back with this new exhibition which opens tomorrow (December 15) and runs until February 2.
The exhibition will feature more than 50 stunning black and white photographic images by 15 Yorkshire-based photographers and promises a powerful visual experience for gallery visitors.
The work on show includes a series of images by photographer Sean Francis, whose work has also been used on the poster promoting the exhibition.
Group member Sean was born in Grimsby but brought up in neighbouring Cleethorpes.
He worked as an Occupational Therapist specialising in hand therapy and also worked at the Diana Princess of Wales Hospital in Grimsby. Sean studied in Liverpool during the late 1980s.
“I have been interested in photography since being a child,” he said.
“I think it must be in my blood, as my great grandfather (who I never knew) was a professional photographer in London.
“My mum is also very keen on photography and I joined her club in Cleethorpes when I was about 15. Most of my knowledge has been gained through club photography, and I am currently a member of North East Lincolnshire Photographic Society.
“I was struggling with photoshop when I first started using it so went on a night school course in Scunthorpe for a year which really helped.
“I also learnt a lot from a fellow club member, Jean Brumby, who introduced me to the Yorkshire Monochrome Group.
“I have been attending the group for about three years now and really enjoy the meetings, both for the quality of speakers but also the sharing of marvellous images, and knowledge.
“I really think attending the meetings has helped me improve my photography. I love taking photos, and producing images that other people can get some enjoyment from, but it also increases your powers of observation and enhances the enjoyment of exploring places that you visit.”
The Yorkshire Monochrome Group comprises a number of photographers who meet in Shipley every month.
They say that anyone interested in black and white photography is welcome to join their meetings (£15 charge per meeting, which includes refreshments and a buffet lunch).
The group aims to encourage monochrome photography by producing, showing and discussing their own prints with colleagues; mounting exhibitions of photographic work; sharing knowledge and ideas; and enjoying the information from invited speakers.
For further information and details of the monthly schedule visit the website: www.yorkshiremonochrome.co.uk
