EXHIBITIONS
KENFIG NATURE RESERVE
OCTOBER 24 - MARCH 25
Jessica O’Sullivan was honoured with a wonderful opportunity to exhibit her nature photography at the enchanting Kenfig National Nature Reserve—a hidden gem nestled in Pyle, between the historic lands of Margam and the coastal charm of Porthcawl. Just a breath away from the wild beauty of Sker Beach, the reserve unfolds into a dreamscape of rolling sand dunes, shimmering freshwater pools, tranquil lakes, and whispering woodlands. Teeming with life, this sanctuary of nature welcomes both the keen-eyed wildlife lover and the wandering soul in search of peace. It was the perfect setting for Jessica’s work—images that echo the quiet magic of the wild and invite viewers to pause, reflect, and feel.
A Moment of Calm Heather
Seven Sisters, Dulais Valley, Neath
Microcord TLR, Meduim Format 120mm
In the golden glow of the setting sun, she stood at the edge of a tranquil meadow. The path, lined with vibrant purple heather, swayed gently in the breeze.
A weathered fence faded into the distant hills, as the landscape softened in the waning light. A deep sense of calm washed over her, as if nature itself beckoned her to pause and reflect.
Inspiration |
Self-Portrait
Trecastle Mountain, Powys
Nikon D70
Guided by her sensitivity to the energy of the landscape, Jess immerses herself in the feeling of the forest, as if becoming one with it. The peaceful solitude and the radiant colors evoke a transformation, symbolizing her creative journey.
Through this image, she expresses the power of nature as a source of inspiration—its ability to evoke renewal, reflection, and a deeper connection with the world around her. The scene feels otherworldly, full of both mystery and tranquility, embodying her artistic vision.
Moody Skies
Trecastle Mountain, Powys
Pentax K10D
Moody, overcast clouds cast a soft, dramatic light across the mountains of Trecastle, imbuing the landscape with an ethereal, almost mystical quality. The air hung thick with stillness and suspense before the rain, as if time itself had paused, suspending the ancient land in a timeless, quiet moment.
A Solitary Journey through Heather
Seven Sisters, Dulais Valley, Neath
Microcord TLR, Meduim Format 120mm
Pausing beneath a lush oak tree, it feels as though nature itself is embracing Jess gently guiding her along the path ahead.
Discovering Magic & Light Among the Trees
Oystermouth Castle Gardens, Swansea
Nikon D5600
Light breaking through the treetops becomes a beacon of hope amidst the forest's stillness. The warm glow bathes the scene, suggesting that even in the heart of nature, light and hope are always present, patiently waiting to guide the way. Jessica captures the moment when hope triumphs over darkness.
Nature's Secret Pathway
Seven Sisters, Dulais Valley, Neath
Microcord TLR, Meduim Format 120mm
On a lazy, hazy summer afternoon, Jess wandered through narrow paths lined with lush greenery. Vibrant purple and pink heather bloomed as oak trees blossomed overhead. Lost in a daydream, she marveled at the beauty of the moment, feeling peaceful and at one with nature.
Lost in the Forest,
Found by Magic
Coed Cefn Woodland, Crickhowell
Nikon D5600
In the distance, a soft, glowing light dances through the trees, casting an enchanting warmth over the deep greens and earthy tones. The scene feels alive with quiet magic, inviting the viewer to pause and follow the path into the enchanting light.
MY ONE AND ALL |
A Swansea Coast Photography Exhibition
Volcano Theater & The Taliesin Arts Centre 2016
My One and All was a community-focused photography exhibition celebrating personal connections to the Swansea coastline. As part of Being Human 2016—the UK’s only festival of the humanities—the exhibition was showcased at Volcano Theatre and the Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea University. With over 75 public submissions, the show presented a diverse and heartfelt visual response to coastal life.
Several works were developed through guided photography walks led by local professionals Natalie Hemmingway and Carl Ryan, in partnership with Coastal Housing and Clyne Farm Centre. Alongside the photography, poetry was created through a dedicated workshop led by Professor Owen Sheers, working in collaboration with student volunteers from Swansea University’s Creative Writing department. This workshop inspired participants to craft poems reflecting their emotional and personal connections to the coast, adding a rich literary layer to the exhibition.
ESSENSE - a feeling of becoming part of the land & sea
Jessica O’Sullivan was invited to take part in the exhibition, where she and five other photographers were given the opportunity to speak about their work. Her featured photograph offered a deeply personal reflection on the coastal landscape.
In her exploration of essence, Jessica finds herself dissolving into the seascape. As she walks the shoreline paths, she experiences a profound serenity—a feeling that blurs the boundary between self and surroundings.
