It was back in 2011 that I discovered photographer Kirsty Mitchell and I’ve been completely entranced by her work ever since. The art you love is such a subjective thing, I realise, but when someone’s work captures you, when you feel an emotional connection to it – it’s a powerful force, don’t you agree?
The Pure Blood of a Blossom
And that force has been truly present for the last nearly 4 years since I’ve been following her, watching her grow from when she was ludicrously categorised as a ‘fashion photographer’ (I always thought she was so much more) to an incredible artist who has achieved international fame and recognition for very good reason. She’s staggeringly dedicated to her craft, taking months (even a year in some instances) to get that one perfect shot but this isn’t the only reason I find her work so powerful.
Gammelyn’s Daughter
Kirsty started The Wonderland Project 5 years ago after the tragic death of her mother. Woven through memories of the stories her mother used to read to her, she created a world of fantasy that’s truly unique and captivating. Her images are fantastical, yes, and there is so much beauty in them all but it is not just the beauty that calls to me… there is an innate sadness in her work. This underlying grief that plays so heavily into the storyline, the melancholy that underlines every piece and it’s this that draws me into her world and keeps me there.
Gaia The Birth of an End
I don’t know why I feel so connected to her pieces. Perhaps it’s the fact that I’ve had a strained relationship with my parents for years and so for a while, I dealt with my own period of grief – for the loss of a relationship that I would never again have (yes, it’s complicated). Perhaps within myself, there is that underlying sadness as well – something that I can brush over with pretty things, something that I don’t give an incredible amount of real thought to in my everyday life, but inevitably, within me it remains. And Kirsty’s art resonates with me – this glossing over with magic to hide the pain within.
The Queen’s Armada
Up until very recently, I had never seen Kirsty’s work in person – I have followed her through her website, her Facebook page, her blog, her videos and watched the story unfold digitally (oh the power of the internet, how I love you). So when she announced she was going to finally be exhibiting in London, I knew I absolutely had to be there. There was no way I was going to allow myself to miss it.
On Friday, 8th May I finally got my chance to see Kirsty’s work in person at the Mead Carney Gallery in London. It did not disappoint. Seeing her images blown up in front of me, being able to study the detail, to be surrounded by this work that touched me so deeply… it is difficult for me to put into words.
The Stars of Spring Will Carry You Home
The Queens Armada detail
I was thrilled to see my very favourite piece in the collection as difficult as it is to choose a favourite – She’ll Wait for You in the Shadows of Summer.
It gives me goosebumps. I am not too ashamed to say that I may have teared up seeing it. Is it crazy for something to touch you so deeply?
Probably making myself sound like an emotional wreck in this blog post but I think we all have things inside of us we keep buried and perhaps it’s Kirsty’s stunning tribute and the creativity as she shared her grief with us that makes me realise that we are not alone in this, that finding an outlet is a healthy thing and what beauty can come of sorrow.
The Guidance of Stray Souls
I would love for you to watch this video on the making of my favourite piece if you can – it will really help you to appreciate how she crafts each of her visions, far better than I could ever explain to you in a post (and the music is really beautiful as well).
She has so many wonderful pieces within this collection but 17 of them are on show until the 13th June at Mead Carney Gallery, 45 Dover Street, London W1S4FF (nearest station is Green Park).
If you are in London and you like what you see, then I implore you to visit if only to see these beautiful pieces come to life in front of you and the detail and beauty within it. I have no idea if you’ll have the same emotional reaction as I do, of course, but there is no denying Kirsty Mitchell is an artist and visionary.
The Fade of Fallen Memories
What do you think of Kirsty’s work? Are there any artists that touch you deeper than you are willing to admit? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
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WOW xxx
I know, Pauline, I know! ;) xxx
These are wonderful and very touching. I completely understand your love for them.
So pleased you like them too Sheran! xxx
These are BEAUTIFUL. I cannot image seeing them in person!! And no, its not crazy to be touched so deeply by something so powerful. Reminds me of when my boyfriend took me to see the Grand Canyon last year. I’ve not traveled much (in the plans, currently on my way to being debt free by February – so that will mean all the travels!), and never been in the presence of something so grand. As I stood on the edge looking out over the Canyon while the sun came up, I couldn’t help but tear up. Didn’t help that I was also in the presence of the wonderful human being that is my boyfriend. I was overwhelmed with 800 emotions.
Thank you for sharing this!!!
Love & Coffee Beans,
Katy
Playswellwithcoffee.com
Awww that’s such a lovely story and totally understandable! I think it’s good for the soul to give in to the emotions sometimes, right? xxx
Magic!! So beautiful and the film! :)
Thanks Jeska! She really is magic! xxx
I am stunned into silence. The incredible process of creating the detail is astounding. The resulting magic is just that… magic. Melancholy, breathtaking magic.
I remember when you introduced Kirsty Mitchell way back when on your blog and feeling awed at her work. Now, looking at her work over the past few years, that feeling is multiplied a 100 times.
I can relate to the sorrow as, similar to you, I am estranged from my parents. The relationship is gone for good. For the most part I am relieved to have shaken off their heavy negativity and backward attitudes which used to wear me down so much, but the grief of the lost relationship remains deep down.
It’s wonderful to see that Kirsty must have had a lovely relationship with her mother who gave her so much (for want of a better word) magic in her childhood that she is now able to recreate and express in such an awe-inspiring manner which touches us so much.
It’s so great you were able to see her work up close! I can only imagine how incredible it would have felt.
xx
Isn’t it amazing how much her stuff has grown? It fills me with awe. I felt very privileged to be there!
Awww hunny I totally understand where you’re coming from – completely. There is a relief, yes, but at the same time sometimes I think about it and of course it still hurts. Sending big hugs your way my love xxx
I LOVE her. I wrote a blog about her as well crying throughout. The videos are so powerful and the music is a killer! She definitely takes photography to another level. Have you heard of Marie Bjerre? She’s my inspiration as well. Similar concept but in digital format. Check her Instagram feed under Moronoa.xx
I couldn’t get through this post without tears! Goodness she really has that effect, doesn’t she? I’m so pleased to know I’m not the only one ;) I haven’t heard of her but I just had a quick Google and YES! Love it! Need to have a look at her stuff properly – thank you so much for the introduction. I love getting to know new artists! xxx
Not crazy at all, they’re very powerful. Gammelyn’s Daughter reminds me of Chagall’s La Mariée, she looks like she is floating.
howsoonisnow-tcg.blogspot.com
Ahhh yes indeed it does have a very similar look doesn’t it to Chagall’s painting! :) So pleased you liked it hun! xxx
Holy WOW. So cool
Just wow. I had never heard of or seen Kirsty’s work before, but it’s incredible. It has such am surreal and eery atmosphere that I totally love. Like you’re caught in a dream. I particularly like the first piece as it might encourage me to go out without my eyebrows on once in a while ;)
You’ve hit the ball out the park! Incredible!