Words: Ann Grinbergs
Images: Katy Strudwick
Katy Strudwick is well-known and greatly respected in the local classical music scene as a recital performer, accompanist, flute and piano teacher and ABRSM music examiner. Following her Music Degree at Royal Holloway University in Surrey, Katy has been teaching and performing in and around Chesterfield for 20 years. Her principal instrument is the flute, and she is also an accomplished pianist. During 2020/21 when tuition and live music events were either not allowed or greatly restricted, she took time out to develop a passion for photography.
Katy’s stunning images reflect the magic of the Derbyshire landscape which, amazingly, she now mainly captures on her iPhone. Whilst we looked through some of her ever-expanding portfolio, she told me that her interest began when she was quite young. “I remember having a camera as a teenager and the excitement of capturing a moment in time. Of course, using and processing film was a different experience 35 years ago; now we can see our digital pictures immediately!”
Her images are just as she sees them – without any modification, which makes them all the more remarkable and a testament to her eye for a composition. However, this requires considerable patience, perseverance, and a little good luck for the right conditions. She says, “I enjoy getting up early to catch the best light or to see the dew on a web or frost on a leaf before it is disturbed, and the quiet of that time of day is quite special.” She continues “I also love walking in the countryside and was introduced to the Walk 1000 Miles challenge by a friend last year (walk1000miles.co.uk). I completed the virtual Land’s End to John O’Groats challenge – and have continued the habit, usually setting out from my home in Somersall. Photography is the perfect walking companion!”
Katy explains “I don’t go out looking for anything specific. My photos are a result of seeing a combination of colours or textures and the right opportunity.” One of her recent shots taken on a walk in Linacre Woods was featured in the national Guardian newspaper and is still a “pinch me moment” for Katy! She reflects “I think I was lucky to have been inspired by both my parents. My Dad is a painter, now living in France. Growing up we had his work and photos on the walls at home – I always thought how cleverly he caught the combinations of colour and subjects. My Mum, who sadly passed away eight years ago, supported my young enthusiasm for seeing through a lens. I clearly recall how she allowed me to drag her out of bed before dawn during our holidays, to accompany me on taking some scenery shots as the sun came up.”
Katy’s love of sunrises and sunsets has endured and feature among her collection of images, along with shots of Walton Dam, Linacre, and other Peak District places as well as holiday venues.
She has been invited to exhibit some of her favourite pictures in Holymoorside on Sunday 9 October, with a preview following a “Sounds & Scenes” Concert on Saturday 8th October.
Helped with the choice by husband, Chris and niece Amelie, Katy has selected a number of attractive cards, calendars and mounted pictures to display, discuss and for immediate sale or to order.
Sharing the exhibition with Katy’s Photography are:
Alison Smith – Silver Jewellery,
Barbara Coulam – Recycled Glassware,
Trudy Roe – Experimental Ceramics,
Chesterfield Embroiderers – Decorative Textiles.
The free exhibition is open from 10am to 3pm on Sunday 9 October. Refreshments available throughout and musical interludes by jazz trio “Dream A Little Dream”
Sounds & Scenes Concert is on Saturday 8th October 7:30pm. Tickets £8
Both events, promoted by Holymoorside and Walton Arts Society, are at Holymoorside Village Hall.
More info:
Ann: 01246 567118
Comments