Art / Reviews
Review: Spaces of Separation, St Paul’s Church crypt – ‘Ethereal photography’
As an artist living in the UK, I’ve seen my fair share of exhibitions tucked away in churches, basements and creaky old buildings.
More often than not, the historic weight of the space overpowers the work on display. However, Spaces of Separation by artist Sarker Protick, hidden in the atmospheric depths of St Paul’s church crypt in Southville, struck harmony between space and place as the crypt reinforces the work’s dialogue.
Sarker Protick’s Spaces of Separation exhibition at St Paul’s Crypt
Spaces of Separation is an ongoing photography project and long-term study of “the material fragments of empire found across modern-day Bangladesh”.
is needed now More than ever
The work draws attention to the colonial architectural remains of 19th century British railway lines, and abandoned aristocratic Zamindar landlord houses.
Sarker Protick’s Spaces of Separation exhibition at St Paul’s Crypt
Balancing beauty with discomfort, Protick explores themes of time, land alteration, borders, memory and political history, through photography, video and sound.
The images are a powerful reminder of “the ongoing dance of people, place and power”. Yet, invite quiet contemplation, allowing each viewer to form their own connections to the work.
Sarker Protick’s Spaces of Separation exhibition at St Paul’s Crypt
The use of light boxes to showcase the photography gave the pieces an almost otherworldly glow.
Images, bathed in ethereal light, depicted material fragments, abandoned architecture and echoes of historic presence.
Each moment captured feels deliberate and researched, whilst maintaining a fairytail-like wonder for the viewer to quietly reflect.
St Paul’s Crypt, Southville
As part of the Bristol Photo Festival, Spaces of Separation stood out. I was left with an experience that stayed with me long after climbing back up the crypt steps into the daylight.
For more photography events in Bristol, head to Bristol Photo Festival.
To find more of Protick’s work, check out their website.
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