John Bolloten's evocative pictures among works at festival
Uncover the raw realities of marginalized communities through the captivating lens of John Bolloten, as his thought-provoking photography takes center stage at the Photo North Festival in West Yorkshire.
The Photo North Festival, a vibrant celebration of photography in the UK, is set to showcase the works of several Bradford-based artists, including the renowned documentary photographer John Bolloten. With a passion for unfiltered exploration of social and cultural issues, Bolloten's work delves into the lives of those on the margins of society, shedding light on themes like addiction, poverty, and urban life.
Bolloten's personal journey began in Bradford in 1983, where he sought a fresh start after struggling with drug addiction. It wasn't until years later that he managed to overcome his addiction and reintegrate into society. This experience deeply influenced his photography, as he often finds himself drawn to capturing the raw realities of marginalized communities.
One of Bolloten's notable projects, 'Shabash,' is a collection of photographs of cricket matches in Bradford. The project, named after a Hindi word for 'bravo,' showcases the beauty and joy found in the sport, with the warm and welcoming atmosphere of the local community. Bolloten's love for cricket and his appreciation for the people of Bradford led him to create this intimate and heartfelt project.
Bolloten's work extends beyond cricket, as he has also documented Bradford's lower league football scene in 'Field of Broken Dreams' and captured the city's streets in 'Welcome to Bradford.' Through these projects, he invites viewers to explore the untold stories and everyday struggles of the people he photographs.
'Clown,' another evocative picture by Bolloten, is a powerful example of his ability to capture the overlooked narratives of marginalized individuals. Using photography as a medium for social commentary and change, Bolloten's work challenges viewers to reflect on the complexities of society and the human condition.
As a Patron of Photo North, Bolloten will be present at the festival to engage with visitors and answer questions about his work. The festival also features the work of other Bradford-based artists, such as Carolyn Mendelsohn and Simon Hill, who will be showcasing their unique perspectives on the North. Additionally, the vibrant celebration of African photography by LIAAF, an exhibition titled 'Earthwise,' will be a highlight of the festival, featuring the works of multiple photographic artists.
The Photo North Festival, taking place from March 13-15, 2026, at The Carriageworks in Leeds, and later in Centenary Square, Bradford, promises to be a captivating event that will showcase the diverse and thought-provoking works of several talented photographers. For more information, visit photonorthfestival.co.uk/festival and follow @portrait.of.bradford on Instagram.
