Photographer Brings Steam Train Back to Derelict Line
Manchester digital artist Andrew Brooks has created a stunning composite image showing the Pakistani Locomotive, a collection item at MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry, Manchester), running on the former train line on the Monsal Trail - now a popular walking and cycling spot. The artist will hold a workshop at MOSI on 20th November for photographers who would like to develop their skills. Participants will learn about the techniques of digital composite imaging using Photoshop, and get a chance to try out their own photography in the surroundings of the Museum’s atmospheric railway warehouse at night. The current MOSI exhibition, The Wasted Works by Gina Czarnecki, and the Connecting Manchester gallery will be open for private view and photography during the event. The workshop begins at 6.30pm and the cost of attendance is £35. To book, call 0161 606 0177 or email [email protected] Note that you will have to take your own camera to the workshop. Tripods are recommended.
MOSI Press Release
Photographer brings steam train back to derelict line
LEARN TECHNIQUES IN WORKSHOP AT MOSI ON 2O NOVEMBER
It’s not completely surprising to see a steam train hurtling at top speed through the dramatic landscape of the Peak District. But this is a picture of the Pakistani Locomotive, a collection item at MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry, Manchester), and it is running on the former train line on the Monsal Trail - now a popular walking and cycling spot.
The skilful illusion is in fact a montage of some 300 images and is the latest work of digital artist and photographer Andrew Brooks, who will hold a workshop at MOSI on 20 November for photographers who would like to develop their skills. Participants will learn about the techniques of digital composite imaging using Photoshop, and get a chance to try out their own photography in the surroundings of the Museum’s atmospheric railway warehouse at night. The current MOSI exhibition, The Wasted Works by Gina Czarnecki, and the Connecting Manchester gallery will be open for private view and photography during the event.
Andrew photographed the Pakistani Locomotive during a commission at MOSI for a series of works based on collection items. He overlayed a picture of the locomotive with early morning photos he took of the Monsal Trail (a disused railway line between Buxton and Bakewell), as well as train tracks at Castleton, and atmospheric shots of hills and skies in North Wales. The composite picture was commissioned by the BBC Philharmonic to advertise a forthcoming concert on 30 November. The programme features Dvo?ák’s Symphony No. 7, inspired by the arrival of a steam locomotive in Prague.
Andrew Brooks said: “The evocative scenery of the Monsal Trail is such a fitting location to bring MOSI’s Pakistani Locomotive back to life. Much of my work has been inspired by MOSI’s incredible collections and historic buildings, so I’m delighted to hold my workshop at the Museum where participants can get exclusive access to the galleries for photography.”
Andrew Brooks’ work, which has been exhibited in MOSI’s Power Hall, gives the impression of collection items which wake up after the visitors have gone home. Majestic steam engines appear to take great gasps of steam, aircraft viewed from above in the Air & Space Hall look like delicate insects which have landed for the night, while the huge ‘Baby’ computer (the world’s first stored program computer) seems to stare, unblinkingly out at the viewer.
Andrew Brooks is a photographer, digital artist and film maker based in Manchester. He has also exhibited work at Urbis, Cube Gallery and as far afield as China and Taiwan
Andrew Brooks photography workshop is held on 20 November at 6.30pm priced £35. To book please call 0161 606 0177 or email [email protected]. Participants must bring their own digital cameras and tripods are recommended. Please wrap up warm as the 1830 warehouse can be cold.
More Andrew Brooks images, including his latest commission with BBC Philharmonic can be found at http://www.andrewbrooksphotography.com/main-gallery.php
The BBC Philharmonic concert details are at http://www.bbc.co.uk/orchestras/events/1051
For more information on MOSI look up www.mosi.org.uk
Photo: Andrew Brooks
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