Fashion and photography 2010
One of Lichfield’s most talented artists gave an insight into the world of professional fashion photography to local residents during a workshop set up in 2010. Rebecca Parker is a leading light in modern photography, whose work graces the front covers of many significant national and international publications. The project, based on research into Lichfield’s eminent polymath, Erasmus Darwin, saw Rebecca run a series of studio based workshops with NCFE Photography Students from South Staffordshire College. The workshops addressed issue of composition, lighting and computer editing. The project also saw students kindly allowed to access Erasmus Darwin House, for an evenings photography, with Rebecca and her special guest, photography consultant Patrick Anderson, the official photographer for Zandra Rhodes turned up to help students photograph the professional models Eva Rose and Karenza from Liverpool and Lincoln.
“Rebecca’s workshops have been a great success. Rebecca has shown the students her working process, giving insight into some professional tricks and finishes. Students have learnt how to produce artistic but realistic composite images, in a style inspired by Pre-Raphaelite paintings” Richard Pickup Tutor SSC
“We are delighted with both the response from the people who took part and must commend both Rebecca Parker and also Peter Walker for devising and delivering an outstanding array of workshops” Tony Fletcher (Tesco Corporate Affairs)
‘We are delighted that such an opportunity has been given to part time evening class learners, the take up has been excellent. We look forward to some of their work being exhibited later on in the Summer’. Sophie Cartwright Curriculum Manager Art and design (SSC)
‘ I appreciate the effort you went to in order to give us the opportunity of gaining more experience and knowledge of working with some ‘proper’ models. “Dave (student)
“I had so much fun last night! I took about 60 images and I am really pleased with the way they have turned out! Cant wait to get stuck in and editing them. ” Zara (Student)
Rebecca has also conducted another photo shoot herself at Darwin House, with Port Talbot based model Amelia Kate Thomas who is one of the current contests on the Living TV show Britain Next Top Model. Amelia was very impressed with how beautiful Lichfield is she posed for Rebecca in costume from the Museum’s collection. Rebecca was working on the results of this shoot and the final work alongside images from students involved in the project were seen at an art exhibition at Erasmus Darwin House Museum on the 21st August 2010.
“…..for the evening of the photo shoot the Gardens here at Erasmus Darwin House were transported back to Georgian times. Beautifully costumed, elegant ladies appearing from behind the scented roses and purple lavenders. It really was breath taking.’ Erasmus Darwin house Spokesman,