Some of the country’s top photographers have confirmed their participation in the inaugural Barrydale Analog Photographic Festival that will take place at various venues in town from December 11-19.
The brainchild of photographer and former Cape Town studio owner Graham Abbott, the festival will not only showcase the skills and raw beauty of photography as it was prior to the digital age, it is most likely to inspire a new generation of shutterbugs who will ultimately keep the art form alive.
Since leaving the bright city lights of the Mother City for the serenity of the Klein Karoo nearly a decade ago, Graham has been eager to start a photography festival and the plan was that it would be this year – regardless of the lockdown level.
What he did not anticipate is for his motivation to come from a very honourable place.
During July Graham’s good friend and mentor, Johan Wilke, passed away and he decided that the best way to pay tribute someone who has shaped him to become the photographer he is today, would be to host the Analog Photography Festival in Wilke’s honour.
“I learnt everything I know about fashion, advertising, food, portraits and beauty photography from assisting Johan,” Graham explained.
“I have never met an as talented and hard working photographer and he was. He was also a true gentleman and a visionary that would put in double the effort for a client and always push the envelope.”
Meanwhile it was confirmed that the luxurious Karoo Art Hotel would host the main exhibitions while several other picturesque venues in town will each host a different aspect of the multi-facetted festival.
Members of the Cape Town Analog club have also shown interest to attend.
Photographers who have confirmed that they would participate in the festival include Jonathan Rees, Roger Bosh, Tim Hopwood, Sean Wilson , Simon O’Callaghan and local legend Herman van Wyk.
Graham said that we would be hosting several photographic workshops in the build-up to the festival. These workshops will take place from The Studio Barn.
Janus Boshoff from the Alternative Workshop in Johannesburg will be hosting a wet plate photography workshop and a masters class in black and white photography class.
Graham himself will be hosing a 35mm black and white photography workshop which includes the developing and printing of photographs.
For more information on the Barrydale Analog Film Festival or the various workshops phone Graham on 0846635990 or email grahamabbottphoto@gmail.com
