© Elliott Cole, Untitled, from the series A Hull To Hold The Waves At Bay, 2019

From issue: #8 The Graduate Issue 2020

Elliott Cole (born 1985) is a photographer based in the UK whose documentary-based and research-led projects focus on social and environmental issues. His most recent project, A Hull to Hold the Waves at Bay, considers how society is addressing mental health issues. Cole contemplates how people engage with the natural environment and whether such interactions can reduce the impact of symptoms of mental illness. 

© Elliott Cole, Untitled, from the series A Hull To Hold The Waves At Bay, 2019
© Elliott Cole, Untitled, from the series A Hull To Hold The Waves At Bay, 2019

 

© Elliott Cole, Untitled, from the series A Hull To Hold The Waves At Bay, 2019

The images in A Hull to Hold the Waves at Bay feature human subjects, often captured in natural settings. The time Cole spent making the photographs allowed him to interact with his subjects and to adopt a more collaborative approach to image making. For the artist, the project is also a journey of self-exploration, as inevitably his own experiences have combined with the stories of the people depicted. Overall, the series juxtaposes the momentary calm, warmth and fleeting clarity afforded by coping strategies with the difficulties and frustrations encountered along the way.

Elliot Cole pursued an MA in photography at the University of the West of England.

© Elliott Cole, Untitled, from the series A Hull To Hold The Waves At Bay, 2019
© Elliott Cole, Untitled, from the series A Hull To Hold The Waves At Bay, 2019
© Elliott Cole, Untitled, from the series A Hull To Hold The Waves At Bay, 2019
Learn more about this artist Read more Photography+

Become a Photoworks Friend

Becoming a Photoworks Friend is the only way to receive a Photoworks Festival in a Box. Join now to get yours as well as a range of year round exclusive content, opportunities, invites and 20% off in our online shop.

Join
Photoworks Opportunities

Keep up to date with our latest opportunities as well as ways to learn more about how to get involved with and support our work.

Sign up here

Become a Photoworks Friend

The only way to receive Annual 26 & get exclusive access to our events, content and a 20% shop discount

Join