This is Me! Documentary Photography Open 2026

This is Me! Documentary Photography Open 2026

The Documentary Photography Open 2026 is an exhibition of photographs sent in by the public in response to the theme, This Is Me.  The theme asked the public to explore who they are, as people living in North Devon today.  In a world that is constantly changing, where people are constantly moving, the public was invited to reflect on what makes them unique.

James Ravilious – Portraits from the Collection

The Museum has over 170 photographs by James Ravilious in its collection. To complement This Is Me, the Museum is showcasing a selection of his photographic portraits from our collection of his work. The warmth and affection that he felt for his subjects shines out from within these images, each bringing to life the unique character and personality of each individual.

“The photographs documented North Devon people hard at work, whether on the farm, in the shop, making deliveries, at the doctor’s or dentist’s, but also more intimate and restful details of their lives, at home, taking a break with a thermos, watching the match in their front room, or having a quiet cigarette.”
– Ella Ravilious

Admiration for the People: The James Ravilious Collection. – Museum of Barnstaple and North Devon

The ‘Selfies’ to Self-Aware Portrait Project – Pilton Community College

Funded by the Richard and Siobhan Coward Foundation Fund

The ‘Selfies’ to Self-Aware Portrait Project encouraged students to explore what makes a good portrait, how to use low key and natural lighting and consider the question ‘what one word captures what is it to be a young adult in 2025’ in their portraiture.

With the support of Carole Evans, socially engaged artist and photographer, the group explored photography-based learning, with a focus on their self-esteem and resilience when dealing with the pressure of mental health issues. This body of work by Pilton Community College’s year 11 GCSE was created during art lessons, in response to Young Minds Day.

Bill Cooke in his kitchen, Colehouse, May 1988

James Ravilious © Beaford Arts