Living by the sea I think all our readers will agree is a blessing. To Daniel Harnett the sea is not only a blessing but a way of life.
CommunityAd had the pleasure of a chat with Whitstable’s Daniel Harnett, the photographer who sees the sea differently.
So, Daniel how long have you lived in this fine area of the world?
My parents moved to Whitstable when I was in primary school. I had a brief period away then returned with my wife and family some 26 years ago.
What makes it such a pleasant community to be a part of? Both aesthetically and in terms of community spirit?
Whitstable, what is there not to like? A truly vibrant seaside town, with quirky shops, an abundance of coffee cafes and mouth-watering restaurants. And the opportunities for endless walks along the North Kent coast.
Your photography is heavily linked and influenced by the sea, isn’t it? Can you tell our readers a little about why?
My childhood was spent living by the sea and there’s been connections with the sea running through my family; my grandfather was a radio officer in the Merchant Navy. I also joined the merchant navy as an apprentice working my way through the ranks to become a master mariner. As children we were members of Whitstable Sailing Club, we spent our summers there. If we weren’t down at the club, we used to be down on the beach close to my parents’ house. The beach was our playground, our back garden.
My photography is an extension of my life’s voyage, creating works that explore the human relationships with the sea, conjuring images, stories and reflections. Having spent years at sea, I am well aware of the harsh environment and the sea’s hidden strength. I’m keenly cognisant of the different ways we experience the sea – a seafarer who lives and works on the water has a different outlook and priorities to a landlubber experiencing it from the shoreline.
What piece of advice would you give to budding photographers who have only recently picked up a camera?
Get to know your camera; practice, practice and more practice; make it about you, put your heart and soul into your images.
What dates should readers be making note of and why?
I have a Solo exhibition at the Whitstable, Horsebridge Arts Centre running from 20thJuly to 8thAugust 2023.
Anything else you’d like to add at all?
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