Alice Andrew- I am a Farmher
Alice Rose Andrew is a recent photography graduate from the University for the Creative Arts, Farnham. Throughout the course Andrew has developed a niche in her photographic practice, embodying both her passion for working with the public and creating a voice and awareness to unheard stories.
The following photographs are an extract from her most recent body of work, I am a Farmher in which Andrew set out to discover and demonstrate women's ability to expand the definition of 'farmer'.
Women have always been involved in farming, in WWII they bridged the gap for farm workers playing a fundamental role as ‘Land Girls’, forming, shaping and developing the land. However, believing the natural preconception surrounding this masculine occupation has lead to a prolonged failure to recognise the roles women have played in agriculture.
Travelling to 5 different farms across the UK, Andrew delved into an unfamiliar way of life and explored the lives of women who are defying the masculine story.
She worked alongside women who work with their partners, with their children, alongside their siblings or on their own. Immersing herself into the surroundings she also partook in lambing, milking and mucking out truly experiencing the adversity, connection and passion each of these women feel on a daily basis.
Andrew photographed the elements of her series using 120 medium format, as she wanted a medium which complemented the slowness and developing of the land alongside the intensity and demand this profession requires.
I am a Farmher unveils multiple experiences and stories which entwine and ripen before our eyes. It strived to create a multidimensional rendering of women in farming; a platform to expose their existence and selves.
Raising their silent voices and visibility within the family farm and agriculture is an integral part of her work, aspiring to provide recognition to the endless contribution female farmers undertake. Throughout the development of this project, it was prominent when observing and talking to the women that although the opportunities may be growing, it is evident that the old traditions and views are still very much embedded within this industry.
Website: alicerose.format.com
Instagram: @alicerose_photo