Ian Beesley, one of the UK’s most respected social documentary photographers, is retiring from his tenure as artist in residence.
Image: Born in Bradford
Ian Beesley, one of the UK’s most respected social documentary photographers who has brought life through a lens to the landmark Born in Bradford research programme, is retiring from his tenure as artist in residence.
His final captivating photoshoot for Born in Bradford, which took place at Bradford’s City Hall, captured the journey of twins who have grown up as part of the research. The focus of this momentous event was the pairs of twins who have been closely followed by the research study for the past 18 years.
Born in Bradford (BiB), supported by NIHR Applied Research Collaboration Yorkshire and Humber (YHARC), is a pioneering longitudinal study which explores the health and wellbeing of children born in the city. Through Ian’s lens, the journey of these twins, from infancy to adulthood, unfolds in a series of striking images that poignantly reflect their growth, challenges, and resilience.
“Photography has a unique power to capture not just moments, but stories and journeys,” said Ian. “Working with Born in Bradford has been a profound experience, and documenting the lives of these twins has been both a privilege and a deeply moving journey.”
Director of YHARC and BiB, Professor John Wright, said: “It’s hard to over-estimate the value Ian’s work has brought to Born in Bradford, and we will miss him very much.
“Research isn’t a dry, one-dimensional subject: it’s about people, for people, and Ian’s photography has brought to life the children at the heart of BiB who have made this landmark study what it is. They have provided the research findings and Ian’s work has perfectly shown how richly diverse and unique every child in Bradford is.”
The photoshoot marked the culmination of Ian’s residency, highlighting the importance of long-term research and the impact it has on individuals and communities.
The photographs will be exhibited publicly at Salts Mill later this year, offering a glimpse into the lives shaped by the BiB study.
