A Collective Approach to Learning
At the heart of it all is the dedication and enthusiastic contribution of practicing artists who are redefining the boundaries of photography through hands-on, process-driven exploration. Each bring their experience and passion reimagining the ethos of the Pictorialists, the late 19th-century photographic movement that sought to elevate photography to a fine art by emphasising imagination and mystery. Like their predecessors, they employ often labour-intensive, analogue methods while also embracing the possibilities offered by modern digital tools.
Each series of workshop/retreats are structured around hands-on practice, group critiques, and conceptual discussions, allowing artists of all levels to immerse themselves in the act of making with peer support. Whether working with large format film, creating digital negatives, or experimenting with alternative processes, participants will leave with both technical proficiency and a deeper understanding of how to integrate these techniques into their broader artistic practice.
Whether you're an experienced photographer or new to alternative processes, our Neo-Pictorialism Summer School offers an unparalleled opportunity to deepen your practice, experiment with new techniques, and connect with a vibrant community of artists.
Rediscover the tactile magic of analogue photography and explore the fusion of traditional methods with contemporary creativity.
Founders
Spencer Rowell
Spencer's work bridges the worlds of photography and psychotherapy. Blending traditional analogue methods with contemporary conceptual frameworks that explores the interplay between memory, identity, and the unconscious—a synthesis he describes as Pathography, where art becomes both a medium of expression and a tool for self-discovery.
SpencerRowell.uk
David George
David brings his expertise in Photogravure, blending traditional intaglio techniques with contemporary digital tools to create prints that are rich in detail and atmosphere. His work is deeply rooted in the suggestive and mysterious, often exploring themes of memory and place. David's approach emphasises the narrative potential of photography, and the critical thought about the stories their images tell.
DavidGeorge.eu
Angela Chalmers
Angela, with the Cyanotype process, specialises in the harnessing of natural light with organic materials to produce her striking blue-toned prints. The interplay between nature and the photographic process, with the environment as both subject and collaborator. Her passion for process-led experimentation inspires artists to embrace spontaneity and serendipity in their practice.
AngelaChalmers.com
Ian Phillips-McClaren
Ian specialises in some of oldest techniques in the making of photographs. His work is characterised by warm, textured prints that feel both timeless and engage with the physicality of photographic materials, emphasising the relationship between image and surface. His approach bridges historical craftsmanship with modern sensibilities, offering artists a unique perspective on how traditional processes can inform contemporary practice.
IanPhillipsMclaren.com
Mick Williamson
Says Paul Hill: "Most British contemporary photographers know Mick - well, at least those who live south of Watford Gap Services do - and everyone loves him as he is such a generous, caring, selfless person. Although he is a fabulous photographer, he is maybe best known for supporting groups and individuals, and organising activities that benefit others rather than himself. Rod Morris, who has made the documentary The Photo-Diaries of Mick Williamson says: 'He has spent most of his life helping others to realise their work, through teaching. It is now time for us all to benefit from engaging with his work'".
MickWilliamson.com
Zelda Cheatle
Curator, Gallerist, and Photography Advocate
Zelda Cheatle began her career in photography after studying at Brighton and Goldsmiths. She gained early experience at The Photographers' Gallery in London throughout the 1980s. In 1989, marking the 150th anniversary of photography, she founded the Zelda Cheatle Gallery. The gallery quickly became known for showcasing a blend of iconic vintage works and contemporary talent, supporting both emerging and established photographers.
In addition to curating, Cheatle launched the publishing imprint ZCP, which produced numerous influential monographs and exhibition catalogues. From 2005 to 2012, she directed the first Photography Fund, an initiative that acquired significant photographic works, loaning them to museums and international exhibitions. During this period, she also organized symposia and published the book Discussing Photography, a compilation of critical texts and images from across the photographic world.
Since 2012, Zelda Cheatle has curated exhibitions on a global scale, including in Russia (The Hermitage, St. Petersburg), the UAE (Dubai), Saudi Arabia (Riyadh, Jeddah), China (Beijing, Chongqing, Wuhan, Shanghai), Egypt (Siwa Oasis), and the UK (Dalkeith Photo near Edinburgh).
Her most recent book, The Photograph That Changed My Life (2021), features powerful images and personal reflections from over 50 contributors, exploring the profound impact of photography on their lives.
ZeldaCheatle.com
Michael Pritchard
Michael has extensive experience in researching wide-ranging aspect of photographic history, from photographers and individuals working in photography, thematic research, photographs, to photographic technology and cameras, for use in exhibitions, publications and online.
His PhD in history of photography between 2007 and 2010 has taught history of photography at MA level. Michael was recruited to the Royal Photographic Society (RPS) in 2011 as Chief Executive, becoming Director of Programmes from 2018-2023.
MPritchard.squarespace.com
