Finding Solace in the Darkness: A Photographer's Journey with Waterfalls
For John Arnison, a photographer based in Leeds, the quest for a unique artistic voice led him into the serene darkness of the Yorkshire Dales twenty-five years ago. What began as a simple drive to Malham in North Yorkshire evolved into a profound, lifelong project that has not only defined his career but also provided a crucial escape from personal struggles with anxiety, ADHD, and depression.
A Creative Escape from Inner Turmoil
Arnison reflects on his motivation, stating, "A lot of the best photographers' works have their own look, and I needed mine." Inspired by his early caving experiences, he sought to capture striking outdoor images akin to those taken in caves. This creative pursuit quickly became more than just art; it served as a therapeutic balm for his soul. Since his teenage years, Arnison has grappled with depression, often feeling misunderstood in an academic family and struggling with dyslexia diagnosed at age ten.
Receiving his first camera at nine years old sparked a passion that would shape his future. After leaving school at fifteen, he was inspired by photojournalists like the Guardian's Denis Thorpe, leading him to work in Fleet Street darkrooms and eventually establish his own in Leeds. This darkroom has since become a hub for a vibrant community of northern photographers, fostering collaboration and creativity.
The Healing Power of Nature and Photography
Arnison openly shares how his photography, particularly of waterfalls, has been a lifeline. "I think taking pictures has kept me going, and I think the waterfalls in particular have saved me," he explains. He finds cities unsettling and people difficult to understand, but nature offers honesty and straightforwardness. Venturing alone into the countryside at night, he cherishes the solitude, saying, "It's just me and the owls."
Over the past fifteen years, he has taken more than 150 photos, traveling across Yorkshire, Teesside, and Cumbria to capture waterfalls, with plans to explore Scotland in the future. The process is cathartic for him, from researching locations to spending hours perfecting shots, allowing him to focus externally and stay present in the moment.
Preserving a Precious Legacy
So valuable are these images to Arnison that he stores all negatives in a fireproof case at home, fearing their loss would be irreplaceable. At 63, he feels as energetic as in his youth but acknowledges the physical demands of his nocturnal expeditions. Looking ahead, he dreams of publishing a book of his waterfall photos, possibly paired with poetry from northern writers, hoping to share his work and its therapeutic benefits with others.
Arnison concludes, "If anyone could look at it and take something helpful from it, then I'd feel really proud." His story highlights how art and nature can intertwine to heal, offering inspiration to those facing similar mental health challenges.
