I have been engaged in a photographic study of the nude over a number of years. I began with self-portraiture, moved on to the female nude, the male nude, and mother-and-child. My study of the nude was initially inspired by the implications of Lacanian theory for the assessment, appropriation, regulation and control of the body. Working with the male nude has highlighted familiar issues usually thought to arise only in connection with the female nude – such as objectification and fetishization.
In ‘Topographies of the Body’ I explore the contradictions and tensions that arise in viewing representations of the nude – tensions between artist, model, image and audience.
‘Morphe’ is based on reactions to genetic engineering and interests in ethics and gender studies. A somewhat androgynous treatment of the male body generates a sense of morphing between the sexes. The use of masks produces a sense of morphing between human and animal.
I am interested in the dynamics of the relationship between the audience, the work and the gallery in providing a ‘potential space’ for creativity and encouraging what D.W. Winnicott refers to as a ‘facilitating environment’. The use of text has been an integral part of my work. I invite the models to submit biographical reflections: their narratives, presented anonymously, are exhibited alongside the photographs. Their purpose is to disrupt the assumptions of an audience and to subvert conventional perceptions of the nude and to re-present a socio-historical identity in the body; in other words, to re-instate the individual.
My interest in photography started at an early age. I saw my father go into a cupboard, turn on a red light – which meant I was forbidden to enter – and come out waving wonderful photographs in his hands. To a small child, this was magical.
My first degree was a B.A. Hons. in Photography; and I have taught at various colleges and community centres. I set up B4 Studios in London with photographic studios, darkrooms and a gallery; this eventually turned into a successful co-operative venture.
Teaching photography helped me to appreciate its therapeutic benefits on the various groups I worked with, so that I went on to take a Postgraduate Diploma in Art Psychotherapy. I have subsequently worked both with individuals and groups, in mental health, oncology and bereavement. I currently work in women’s health, providing support for women and families through engaging with the therapeutic capacity of art and photography, enabling creative expression and healing.
Resume
Born Scarborough, Yorkshire, UK (Scottish descent)
BA (hons) Photography
PG Dip. Art Psychotherapy
Diploma in Brief Psychodynamic Psychotherapy
Photographic productions involve long-term studies of the nude, including self-portraiture, the female nude, the male nude, and mother-and-child. Isabella works in issue-based photography and has worked for the Health Education Authority, Age Concern, and in education. She has worked with emotionally and behaviourally disturbed children, the elderly, women’s groups and cancer therapy groups.
Isabella works as an Art Psychotherapist and Counsellor specializing in women and children’s health at University College London Hospital. She is currently studying for the University of London MA in Cultural Memory.
Exhibitions include work at:
The Figure and the Face, Orleans House Gallery, Twickenham
Huddersfield Art Gallery, Yorkshire
2000 Hereford Photography Festival
Morley Gallery, London
Photofusion, London
Impressions, York
Stills Gallery, Edinburgh
Kvindemuseet I Denmark
Residencies include:
International Year for the Elderly, ‘Black Pensioners Project’, Hackney Council.
Claudia Jones Organization,‘Youth Nature-Study Scheme’ Horizon School for children from black and ethnic groups, field trips/photographic workshops.
Institute for Women’s Health, EGA Hospital, UCLH Gilda’s Club. Art psychotherapy and poetry workshops in therapy centre for people with cancer.
Publications
Citation in ‘Masquerade; Women’s Contemporary Portrait Photography’ 2003
What She Wants (Book of Exhibition) 1996
‘Body Politic’ Work accompanying article by Lynne Segal.
Health Education Authority. Anti Smoking Campaign for young women.
World Health Conference, Helsinki. Poster and booklet for HEA.
