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Welcome to Seen

The Seen logo, large white text against a black background that says Seen, followed by a pink chevrons denoting the corners of a square with a plus symbol in the middle to represent a camera viewfinder. The text below reads "A portrait series of blind an partially sighted individuals through the lens of Joshua Bratt". On the top right and bottom left are partially cut off images from the photo series representing a man smiling whilst wearing a cap and headphones and a woman with a flat expression on her face. The bottom right shows "hosted by" followed by the RNIB logo.

A portrait series of blind and partially sighted individuals captured through the lens of Joshua Bratt.

Welcome to Seen, a photography exhibition by Joshua Bratt, featuring 22 powerful portraits that bring into focus the lives of blind and partially sighted people.

Hosted in September at RNIB’s Grimaldi Building and online, Seen showcases the remarkable stories of blind and partially sighted people, proving sight loss does not define a person’s potential.

As you explore Seen’s portraits below, we invite you to take your time, reflect and absorb each of the stories they tell. These are stories of resilience, ambition, the everyday – and of the people behind the sight loss.

Louise Simpson

Louise Simpson is a long-distance runner from Leeds. With retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) – a sight loss condition which has caused total blindness – Louise has run 126 marathons and 488 park runs with the help of guide runners. When she isn’t running, Louise works for Jobcentre Plus, where she has been employed since 2008.

"I hope that visitors will dismiss any negative views of blind people and what we can achieve – sometimes with the help of others." - Louise's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Louise, a woman in her late thirties with fair skin and dark pulled back hair, standing outdoors – the ground is covered with fallen autumnal leaves. She wears a blue long-sleeve athletic top and black leggings with a red stripe. She stands with her right hand on her hip, suggesting a moment of rest after running a marathon at Rickmansworth Aquadrome in Hertfordshire. Sunlight casts bold shadows that sculpt her face and upper body with warmth and clarity. Behind her, a wooded landscape unfolds – trees in varied hues, some tinged with golden leaves, signalling the shift of seasons. The setting suggests a calm and natural feel.

23 November 2023; Rickmansworth Aquadrome; Hertfordshire

Ebony Rose Dark

Ebony Rose Dark is a London-based performance drag artist, cabaret star and dance-maker whose work powerfully challenges ideas around disability, race, gender and LGBTQ+ identity through movement, storytelling and drag. Born visually impaired, they discovered dance at the Royal National College for the Blind and trained in contact improvisation, ballet, tango and more – later joining Candoco and Amici Dance Theatre, and teaching community dance. Ebony has performed in venues that include Tate Modern, Edinburgh Fringe, Royal Vauxhall Tavern, Toronto’s Cripping the Arts, and sites throughout Europe. Their full-length show Out There, In Here is a richly immersive, audio-described, BSL-interpreted journey exploring what it means to be “seen and not seen” through a sensory-rich theatrical experience.

"I hope Seen creates awareness of the talent and diversity within the sight loss community." - Ebony's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Ebony, a person with black skin sporting a bold black afro wig, proudly standing in front of a colourful balloon archway decorated for the London Pride celebrations. The background features a vivid red door surrounded by rainbow-coloured balloons, including a large foil rainbow balloon and heart-shaped balloons that say, “Love is Love.” Ebony is dressed in a sparkly, purple sequin shirtdress, fishnet tights, and black heels. They are wearing bright pink rectangular earrings and have striking makeup on with pink eyeshadow. They confidently pose with one hand on their hip and the other holding a white cane. Multiple Pride flags – including the traditional rainbow flag, the Progress Pride flag, and the transgender flag – are draped around them, symbolising inclusivity and intersectionality. This vibrant image is both joyful and empowering, celebrating LGBTQ+ pride, visibility, and diversity with a strong sense of self-expression and inclusion.

5 July 2025; Soho, London

Ellen Renton

Ellen Renton is a poet and theatre-maker with albinism from Edinburgh. Since performing her own work for the first time in 2015, she has read at venues including The Scottish Parliament, The Roundhouse, Leith Theatre, and at festivals such as Verve and the Edinburgh International Book Festival. While always keeping poetry at its core, her work is varied and has included theatre, journalism and multimedia collaborations.

"I want everyone to think about those who aren’t pictured, and how their lives and stories all hold worth." - Ellen's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Ellen, a woman with fair skin and fair hair, standing against a dark, old stone-walled background. The lighting is soft and moody, casting gentle shadows that give the image a quiet, almost timeless quality. Ellen’s fair hair and skin catch the available light, making her look luminous. She is wearing a deep burgundy textured coat and a large, cozy tartan scarf in muted earthy tones, wrapped warmly around her neck. Her hands are tucked into her coat pockets, and she looks directly at the camera with a calm, steady gaze. The overall mood of the striking portrait is contemplative and elegant, blending natural light with rich textures and heritage tones, evoking a deep sense of place, history, and quiet strength.

21 February 2025; Milnes Court, Edinburgh

Dr Amit Patel

As a best-selling author, broadcaster, award-winning Diversity, Equity and Inclusion consultant and disability rights campaigner, Dr Amit Patel works tirelessly to champion equal opportunities and break down barriers for people with disabilities. Amit lost his sight following a series of failed corneal transplants due to keratoconus, which sparked his passion for fostering a more inclusive society. He supports various charities, using his platform to drive meaningful change and advocate for accessibility. Amit’s expertise and unwavering commitment make him a leading voice in diversity and inclusion, inspiring individuals and organisations to create equitable spaces for all.

"Behind each portrait stands fierce determination, relentless resilience and an unyielding drive to shape our lives on our own terms." - Amit's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Amit, a man in his mid-forties with brown skin, short dark hair and a neatly trimmed dark beard, sitting in a warmly lit dressing room, gently smiling at the camera, accompanied by his black Labrador guide dog, Quark, seated proudly at his feet. Amit wears a smart navy blazer, white shirt, tan chinos, and polished brown leather shoes. His posture is relaxed yet composed, with his hands gently clasped and a confident, approachable expression on his face. The setting – with dark red walls, lit vanity mirrors behind him, and soft wood flooring – suggests a backstage environment. The lighting is soft and directional, casting warm highlights that flatter both Amit and Quark, creating a sense of focus. Quark, sitting tall and steady, looks directly at the camera, exuding calm and attentiveness. The pairing between the two speaks to trust, partnership, and shared independence. Altogether, it’s a powerful yet understated portrait of confidence, companionship, and quiet charisma.

21 October 2024; Ham Yard Hotel, Soho, London

Anna Tylor

Anna Tylor was born severely sight impaired and has been a life-long advocate of disability rights. Her early career included working on employment programmes, and she has also worked in service settings delivering training and development activities. She was involved in leading the roll out of equalities legislation and has worked on inclusion programmes – including with the City of London Police, and in the banking and retail sector. She is a trained mediator with a master’s degree in Sociology and Social Policy. Anna established the UK educational collection, now known as RNIB Bookshare, to offer blind and partially sighted people – and other disabled learners – equal access to the curriculum. She became Chair of RNIB in 2020.

"I really hope that visitors will leave the exhibition with a strong sense that blind and partially sighted people are as varied as the society we reflect." - Anna's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Anna, a middle-aged woman with fair skin and blonde hair, standing confidently in RNIB’s heritage space dressed in a vibrant blue and purple paisley blouse and jeans, with a gentle smile and a relaxed, welcoming posture. Her blonde bob haircut and red lipstick add a classic touch to her style. To her right, there’s a vintage illuminated eye chart featuring large letters at the top and smaller ones toward the bottom. The background is filled with shelves displaying a variety of RNIB artefacts and nostalgic objects – including vintage Sooty coin boxes, books, framed photographs and curiosities. The setting feels personal, curated, educational and archival. The overall atmosphere is one of quiet confidence, charm, and curiosity – a hint of Anna’s rich personal and professional story.

19 November 2024; RNIB Headquarters, The Grimaldi Building, London;

Clarke Reynolds

Clarke Reynolds is a professional artist based in Portsmouth, known nationally and internationally for his pioneering use of colour-coded braille as a visual language in contemporary art. Having gradually lost his sight following his diagnosis of retinitis pigmentosa, Clarke has redefined what it means to communicate through creativity. His practice invites audiences to engage with art, not just by seeing, but through touch, interpretation and emotion.

"I want people to see blindness not as a deficit, but as a different way of understanding and contributing to the world – one that has value, creativity and professionalism at its heart." - Clarke's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Clarke, a man in his mid-forties with fair skin and blond hair, sitting casually on the edge of a table in his studio. He’s dressed head-to-toe in bright yellow – a matching t-shirt and overalls ensemble – adorned with black graphic elements including braille dots, letters, and symbols. Clarke wears dark sunglasses and has visible tattoos on both arms, adding to his distinctive and expressive look. His wide, genuine smile radiates warmth and approachability. Behind Clarke are his artworks – colourful, pixel-art-style mosaic panels – made from small multi-coloured, square tiles. A partially painted board sits propped up behind him. On the table beside Clarke sits a container of LEGO-style pieces, further reinforcing the creative, tactile, and accessible nature of Clarke’s art. This portrait feels vibrant, joyful, dynamic, and rooted in personal expression – a celebration of individuality and art as a language beyond the visual.

10 June 2024; Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth

Clive Jones

Clive Jones is a blind veteran who served for 12 years in the British Army before an attack left him blind in both eyes. During his rehabilitation in 2001, Clive took up archery and quickly discovered a remarkable talent for the sport. Since then, he has competed in numerous British Blind Sport competitions, earning multiple titles as the B1 champion. Most recently, he won the British Blind Sport Outdoor National Championship by over 100 points. Clive now serves as the chairman of Blind Veteran UK’s archery club.

"There is definitely life after sight loss – and that life should be celebrated for what you can achieve, not what you can’t." - Clive's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Clive, a man in his late forties with fair skin and short dark hair, outdoors, standing on a grassy field under a dramatic cloudy sky, engaged in the sport of archery. He is in the middle of drawing his bow, with the arrow pulled back, ready to release. He wears a red, white, and blue shirt featuring a large graphic design which is part of the Union Jack. He also wears shorts and has equipment attached to his belt, including arrows and accessories for archery. His expression is focused and determined, and his posture demonstrates skill and discipline, highlighting his commitment to the sport. The surrounding environment, with trees in the background and open space, creates a fitting setting for his target practice.

18 April 2024; Market Drayton, Shropshire

Jessikah Inaba

Jessikah Inaba was born and raised in Lewisham, South London, with bilateral microphthalmia and is completely blind as a result. On 13 October 2022, she was called to the Bar of England and Wales, becoming the first Black and blind barrister in the country’s history. Her academic work spans two doctoral research projects: the treatment of Black and low-income families within English family law, and the experiences of Congolese refugees in African refugee camps and their reception in host countries globally. Jessikah is also the founder and managing director of Realeyesation, an organisation that promotes blindness awareness and inclusion.

"I want people to leave with a renewed sense of possibility: to recognise that diversity strengthens every community, and to believe in their own capacity to break barriers and create change.” - Jessikah's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Jessikah, a woman in her mid-twenties with black skin, dressed in formal barrister attire – she wears a traditional white wig and a black robe over a white top and checkered vest. She holds a white cane and her expression is one of confidence and poise. The background is richly decorated with dark wood panelling and a portrait of Henry Montagu, 1st Earl of Manchester, looking over her as she poses in the Queen’s Room at the Honourable Society of the Middle Temple in London. The overall composition suggests strength and professionalism.

Portrait taken on 6 February 2024; The Honourable Society of the Middle Temple, London

Penny Melville-Brown

During her time as a Commander in the Royal Navy, Penny Melville-Brown worked in uniform using a white cane, before her eyesight deteriorated completely due to uveitis. After being medically discharged, Penny used the confidence gained from her experience in the Royal Navy to launch her own business, take on senior Government roles and help thousands of other disabled people fulfil themselves through work. Penny’s new handbook, It Could Be You..., shares ideas from nearly 30 years of professional experience in the field.

"Blindness needn’t hold anyone back." - Penny's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Penny, a woman in her late sixties with fair skin and short dark hair, in her kitchen leaning on her countertop smiling warmly at the camera while preparing dough with her hands - she is baking cookies. She wears an electric blue long sleeve top and a stripey navy and white apron. To her right there is a metal pot on the dark green countertop. To her left, a baking tray with cookie dough portions sits ready for the oven. Behind her, the traditional kitchen is decorated with floral-patterned curtains inside glass-front cabinets and a stove with shiny pots. The overall mood suggests warm, welcoming homely charm —– it feels like a snapshot of Penny happily sharing her cooking.

Portrait taken on 24 February 2024; in Penny’s kitchen in Fareham, Hampshire

Steve Darling

Steve Darling is a Member of Parliament for Torbay. Though his vision was affected at a young age due to Stargardt’s disease, his ambition and drive to pursue his passions never faltered. Motivated by a desire to help others, Steve has had a long career in politics – from serving as a councillor for over 30 years, working for the previous Liberal Democrat MP, and becoming Leader of Torbay Council, to his current role as the MP for Torbay. Despite a challenging journey, Steve is truly honoured to serve as Torbay’s representative in Westminster.

“With the right opportunities, support and determination, blind and partially sighted people can go wherever they want in life.” - Steve's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Steve, a man in his mid-fifties with fair skin and a bald head, facing towards the camera with his guide dog, Jennie, outside the Palace of Westminster in London. Steve stands on the grass, dressed in a dark suit with a light-yellow shirt and a bright cheerful sunflower-patterned tie, holding Jennie’s lead. Jennie, a golden retriever, sits calmly by his side. Behind them, the iconic Victoria Tower rises above the surrounding buildings under a partly cloudy sky with the Union Jack flying high at full mast, a nod to Steve’s work. The image conveys warmth, dignity and a strong sense of inclusion and civic pride.

12 May 2025; At Westminster, London

Dr Nicolas Bonne

Originally from Australia, Dr Nicolas Bonne was born with a severe vision impairment due to an eye condition called retinopathy of prematurity. Nicolas pursued a childhood fascination with space by completing a PhD and moving to the UK to start a career as a professional astronomer. He now works at the University of Portsmouth’s Institute of Cosmology and Gravitation as a science communicator, using his knowledge of astronomy to help colleagues communicate their science to different audiences. His work involves developing multi-sensory resources to give blind and partially sighted people more ways to access the visual elements of astronomy.

“With determination and some clever problem solving, blind and partially sighted people can achieve anything they set their minds to.” - Nicolas' reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Nicolas, a man in his early forties with fair skin, standing confidently in front of a vast, glowing image of the Carina Nebula – a celestial cloudscape alive with swirling streaks of orange, green, blue, and red. As the nebula pulses with energy behind him, Nicolas wears a burnt-orange half-zip jumper over a dark top, paired with dark jeans. Around his neck hangs a black monocular – a tool Nicolas has been using since he was seven as an aid to help with distance vision such as crossing roads. His shoulder-length brown wavy hair and beard frame a calm, thoughtful expression in a scene that feels suspended where man and universe share the same space.

19 February 2024; Portsmouth University

Nan M

Nan Mthembu is a British South African model with albinism, based in London. Nan enjoys the creative outlet of modelling, using it to express emotion and channel their passion for visual art, movement and fashion. They advocate for the disabled community by pushing boundaries through their work – subverting expectations of albinism and capturing raw artistry and emotion that reflects their perspective beyond their condition.

“I hope this exhibition underscores and emphasises how incredibly independent and talented people with sight loss are.” - Nan's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Nan, a person in their mid-twenties, captured in a striking close-up portrait. They are a person with albinism, shot from the shoulders up. Their short, pale blonde hair is closely cropped, and their fair skin appears luminous against a dark, neutral background. Nan’s expression is pensive, almost melancholic. Their full lips are slightly parted, and their eyes hold a quiet intensity, as if caught in a moment of introspection. Their face is gently cradled by both hands, fingers resting along their cheeks and temples, adding to the emotional gravity of the image. They wear a high-neck black top adorned with silver neck chains which adds a contrast, suggesting a punk flair to the otherwise raw and tender mood. Multiple facial piercings - two on the lower lip and one on each side of the nose - punctuate their features, introducing a bold contrast to the softness of their expression.

7 August 2024; East India Quay, London

Yahya Pandor

Yahya Pandor is an advocate, public speaker and record-holding athlete who became fully blind in 2021. After losing his sight, he discovered new passions and became the first fully blind person in the world to run a marathon untethered. Beyond sport, Yahya leads national engagement work, supporting blind and partially sighted people to influence change and improve accessibility across society. He is committed to challenging stereotypes and showing what blind people can achieve on their own terms.

“I am more than just my sight loss.” - Yahya's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Yahya, a man in his early thirties with brown skin, a shaved head and a neatly trimmed black beard, standing confidently and centred amidst a bustling crowd on a London pavement. He holds a white cane and wears dark sunglasses, a black t-shirt, and blue jeans. The motion blur of people rushing past him emphasises both the fast pace of the world and Yahya’s stillness, presence, and resilience within it. The visual contrast between Yahya’s calm composure and the surrounding blur powerfully symbolises strength, independence and the often-overlooked experience of navigating the world without sight.

18 July 2025; The British Museum, London

Ben Breen

Currently working as the Accessible Gaming Officer at RNIB, Ben Breen – also known online as SightlessKombat – is an award-winning, multi-credited accessibility consultant and content creator who has spent over 10 years in the video game industry. Born blind due to retinopathy of prematurity, Ben turned his passion into a diverse career and has become an important voice in the blind and partially sighted gaming community, advising studios on accessibility best practices to increase the inclusivity of gaming.

“No matter how much sight you have, gaming is something everyone should be able to enjoy.” - Ben's reflections on Seen

This portrait is of Ben, a man in his early thirties with fair skin, is seated comfortably on a Star Wars-themed bedspread in his bedroom filled with collectibles and gaming memorabilia. He is wearing a dark grey “Pirate Legend – Sea of Thieves” t-shirt, khaki shorts, a baseball cap, and a large gaming headset. His baseball cap features the SightlessKombat logo patch – this is the handle he works under in gaming, and the logo is a graphic of an eye with two swords crossed in front of it. He holds a game controller in both hands and is smiling broadly, exuding happiness and confidence. The lighting in the room includes red and green hues that cast a dynamic glow across the scene, enhancing the atmosphere. Behind him, the room is richly decorated with shelves full of action figures, gaming props, and vinyl figures. A plush toy of Nix, a character from the video game Star Wars Outlaws, sits at the edge of the bed next to Ben. Overall, this joyful photo captures Ben’s enthusiasm for gaming culture, his immersive setup and his individuality.

4 July 2025; Meopham, Kent

Chris Hunt Skelley MBE

Chris Hunt Skelley MBE PLY embodies resilience, determination and the power of adapting to life’s challenges. From being diagnosed with ocular albinism at 19 to becoming a Paralympic Champion, his journey inspires audiences worldwide. As a Tokyo 2020 Gold Medallist, Paris 2024 Bronze Medallist and former World No.1 Judoka, Chris demonstrates how challenges can become stepping stones to extraordinary achievement. His recognition with an MBE for services to the community from King Charles underscores his impact both on and off the mat.

“These portraits capture the joyful, multifaceted lives we lead.” - Chris' reflections on Seen

Chris, a man in his early thirties with fair skin, short strawberry blond hair and a darker blond beard, in a powerful and focused portrait proudly wearing his judo uniform and two Paralympic medals around his neck — a gold from Tokyo 2020 and a bronze from Paris 2024. His confident, intense expression, along with his athletic stance and build, convey strength, determination, and hard-earned accomplishment. Chris is leaning casually against a padded wall, hands gripping the edge of his black belt — a symbol of mastery and dedication in martial arts. His judo uniform bears patches for Paralympics GB and Tokyo 2020, highlighting his national representation and elite level of competition. He stands in a martial arts training centre, with clean white walls and soft lighting that brings all attention to Chris himself. His blond hair and beard are slightly tousled, and there’s a visible sense of calm control in his posture — the kind of quiet confidence that comes from years of discipline and performance under pressure.

13 March 2025; At Gracie Swindon BJJ, Self Defence and Martial Arts Centre, Swindon

Sylvia Chengo

Sylvia Chengo is a digital content creator, storyteller, public speaker and mother who uses her platform to amplify underrepresented voices and redefine perceptions of blindness, parenthood and identity.

Experiencing life-changing sight loss shortly after the birth of her first child marked the beginning of a journey that transformed Sylvia’s personal and professional life. Today, she empowers others by sharing lived experiences through advocacy work and authentic online content – proving that visibility is not just about being seen, but about being heard. She is also a director at Beyond Strength CIC, a community interest company supporting families navigating disability and chronic illness.

“This exhibition doesn’t just challenge misconceptions – it invites people into our world where lived experience is recognised not as a limitation, but as a source of innovation and strength.” - Sylvia's reflections on Seen

Sylvia, a woman in her mid to late thirties with black skin, standing with her two children in a sunlit Barking Park scattered with blooming yellow daffodils during springtime. Sylvia, holding her white cane, is positioned in the middle, and is wearing a stylish black-and-white patterned dress with lace up knee-high black boots. Her wavy long red hair and confident smile add vibrancy to the scene. Standing on her right is her daughter, who is about six years old with black skin and black hair, in a light jacket, navy skirt, and white tights, wearing white shoes and two yellow hair bows that complement her cheerful presence. On Sylvia’s left is her son, who is about ten years old with black skin and short black hair, dressed in a colour-blocked long-sleeve shirt, dark trousers, and tan boots. His right arm is gently resting on Sylvia, and the family’s closeness is clear in their body language and expressions. They are standing in a serene park setting, framed by a line of leafless trees stretching into the background and surrounded by lush green grass dotted with early spring flowers. The light is golden, the mood is calm and proud, and the portrait speaks beautifully of strength, love, and family unity.

9 March 2025; Barking Park, London

Lord Blunkett

David Blunkett is a UK politician who transitioned from leading England’s fourth largest city (Sheffield), to becoming the Member of Parliament for Sheffield Brightside in 1987. He joined the incoming government in 1997 and served for eight years in Tony Blair’s Cabinet. During that time, he held the posts of Education and Employment Secretary, Home Secretary and Secretary of State for Work and Pensions. After leaving government, David worked with a number of key charities – including RNIB – and advised on diverse issues such as cyber security, education and skills.

Having stepped down from the House of Commons at the 2015 general election, David was awarded a seat in the Upper House in the Dissolution Honours list that same year, taking the title of Lord Blunkett, of Brightside and Hillsborough in the City of Sheffield. That year, he became Professor of Politics in Practice at the University of Sheffield Department of Politics and Chair of the Board of the University of Law, based in London. More recently, David led on the production of a major report on the future of education and skills for the now Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer.

“Blind and partially sighted men and women can – and do – live equal and successful lives across life’s many settings.” - David's reflections on Seen

Lord Blunkett, a man in his seventies with fair skin, short greying hair and a neatly trimmed beard, captured with a thoughtful expression in a photo resembling a formal portrait. This image, taken from upper chest up, illustrates in detail the textured features of David’s face, suggesting a sense of realism. David wears a dark suit with a white dress shirt and a red tie with white polka dots, adding a touch of colour and personality to the otherwise classic attire. He has short greying hair with a neatly trimmed beard. The lighting is soft but directional, coming from the left side, casting gentle shadows and adding depth to his facial features. The dark background helps to focus attention on the subject. The painterly quality of this portrait feels intimate and dignified suggesting experience, resilience and introspection.

1 May 2024 The House of Lords, Westminster, London

Ian Treherne

Ian Treherne is an Essex-born and based photographer with a truly unique take on the world, navigating it through the lens of RP Type 2 Usher Syndrome – a condition that combines blindness and deafness. From the moment he was told he was going blind at age 15, he knew he wanted to see and capture as much of the world as possible. Now working as a commissioned photographer, he serves as an ambassador for numerous charities and regularly collaborates with major brands including Apple and Canon UK.

Throughout his career, Ian has been an advocate for accessibility in the arts, working to ensure that blind and partially sighted people have the opportunity to express themselves creatively. His work has been featured in numerous exhibitions around Europe.

“I aim to show that it’s possible to transcend limitations and achieve greatness in whatever field one chooses.” - Ian's reflections on Seen

Ian, a man in his mid to late forties with fair skin, sitting calmly on a metal high stool in a studio setting. With long, light brown, slightly wavy hair that falls past his shoulders, Ian is dressed entirely in black with a fitted turtleneck jumper, slim jeans, and sturdy lace-up boots. His hands are loosely clasped between his knees, revealing a sparrow tattoo on the back of each hand. . Additionally, he has a small geometric tattoo on his right index finger that looks like a series of downward-pointing arrows stacked vertically – these are dream catcher symbols. Ian’s head is slightly to the side while his gaze is to the camera with a thoughtful, somewhat introspective expression. Next to him is another stool with his camera resting on top — a nod to his work. The background is a soft grey drape that pools naturally onto the floor, creating a quiet, intimate atmosphere. The overall tone of the minimalist portrait is artistic and contemplative conveying creativity and solitude.

29 November 2024; Soif Studios, Hackney, London

Maud Rowell

Maud Rowell is a writer, photographer and civil servant. She began losing her sight at age 19 due to a rare degenerative disease called FEVR. She went on to study Japanese at the University of Cambridge before training as a journalist. Her first book, Blind Spot: Exploring and Educating on Blindness, was published in November 2021. Maud now works for the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs while writing her next book, which explores her adventures in remote Japan following a $25,000 grant awarded through the 2021 Holman Prize. Her short film, Picturing Wonderland, about the beauty of blindness and analogue photography will be released this year.

“Everyone’s way of seeing is unique, and that’s a beautiful thing.” - Maud's reflections on Seen

Maud, a woman in her late twenties with fair skin and long dark hair, posing outdoors at Kew Gardens in London, in front of a large, vivid red sculpture resembling flower petals by British visual artist Marc Quinn. She is wearing a long, dark pinstripe coat over a white garment and black boots, proudly holding her white cane. She also carries a green textured bag tucked under one arm. Her gaze is directed slightly upward and to the side, suggesting an introspective, thoughtful expression. The bright red petals create a dramatic and bold backdrop, while a tall pagoda tower and lush green trees surround the scene behind her adding a serene and culturally rich atmosphere to the composition. The overall effect suggests quiet strength, elegance, and individuality.

28 May 2024; Kew Gardens, London

Mike Duxbury

Mike Duxbury lost his sight to childhood glaucoma at the age of 6. Undeterred by his sight loss, Mike continues to pursue his wide range of passions – including attending and graduating from agricultural college, driving racing cars, travelling the world, becoming a confident public speaker and a talented musician, and above all, achieving his ultimate dream of becoming a farmer in his own right. Mike has spent the last 25 years developing projects to help people with disabilities in the telecoms industry, and most recently, the farming industry.

Continuing in his quest for equality and inclusion, Mike created the first working farm built by a blind person. As CEO of Inclusive Farm Scotland at MacRobert, he aims to build a better world for disabled people and those with differences – using his drive and passion to create equal opportunities for all.

“No matter our differences, we are able to do the things that we are most passionate about and remember, dreams do come true.” - Mike's reflections on Seen

Mike, a man in his mid-fifties with fair skin and very short greying hair, sitting on a wooden bench at his “Inclusive Farm”. He’s dressed in a dark zip-up fleece jacket, jeans, and trainers, holding a clear bag of feed on his lap. His expression is joyful and engaged, as he interacts with a group of geese gathered closely around him. The two white geese and large grey-speckled goose stand near him. The goose spreads its wings in mid-motion, perhaps in anticipation of being fed. Mike’s face looks toward them with a smile, creating a playful and tender moment that captures the mutual curiosity between human and animal. Behind Mike is a fenced-in area of rustic wooden posts, and grassy ground scattered with patches of earth illustrating a laid-back, hands-on environment – a sanctuary, or therapeutic farm space. The overcast sky and bare trees hint that it is early spring. This candid portrait captures everyday connection, care, and the therapeutic simplicity of time spent with animals.

10 March 2025; Inclusive Farm, Bedfordshire

Red Szell

Red Szell is a writer, broadcaster and blind rock climber. Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa in his teens, he has been registered blind since 1989, and lives in London with his wife and their two children.

In 2013, he became the first blind person to climb the Old Man of Hoy – the tallest sea-stack in the Northern Hemisphere at 450ft high. The feat was captured in a BBC TV documentary, and Red’s account of the adventure, The Blind Man of Hoy, was published in 2015. He continues to climb and use his platform as a blind athlete and broadcaster to promote the message that we should focus less on what we have lost and more on what we can still achieve.

“We are natural problem solvers, because we have to be.” - Red's reflections on Seen

Red, a man in his fifties with fair skin and short dark hair, captured in a moment of intense concentration and physical effort. Red is mid-climb on an indoor bouldering wall, holding onto colourful climbing holds with both his hands and feet. His body is positioned diagonally, stretched across the wall, which emphasises the difficulty and athleticism involved in the climb. He’s wearing a bright blue t-shirt and black climbing trousers, along with specialised climbing shoes that offer grip and support. His left arm is extended upward, fingers reaching for the next hold, while his right hand is gripping an orange hold just below him. His face shows focus and determination, the tension in his muscles hinting at the challenge of the route. The variety of climbing hold shapes, sizes and colours reflects the complicated technical nature of the route. This vibrant, high-energy image conveys Red’s strength, skill and mental precision involved in climbing.

13 March 2024; BethWall Green Climbing Centre, London

Connie Evans

(1921-2025)

Connie Evans was born in 1921 in London’s East End and was raised in Shoreditch. Living in wartime London, Connie worked in Dalston as a machinist making menswear, before later joining the Auxiliary Territorial Service. While serving, she met her partner, Ted, whom she married in 1943.

In her later years, Connie supported people in need within her local community, supplying wheelchairs and becoming Chair of her local residents’ association. Eventually, she joined the Chelsea Pensioners at Royal Hospital Chelsea, where she gave talks to school children about her wartime experiences. In 2019, the Royal Chelsea Hospital published an article detailing her vivid memories of life on the home front.

Connie passed away in 2025 at the age of 103. We wish to thank Connie and her family for her participation in Seen.

“Connie was warm, kind and had effortless poise. It was lovely to shoot someone that had lived as long as her and seen so much during her life. She’s a wonderful example to us all.” - Joshua's reflections on photographing Connie for Seen

Connie, a 102 year old woman with fair skin, sitting in a wheelchair, wearing the iconic bright red coat and navy-blue uniform of the Chelsea Pensioners – a retirement and nursing home for British Army veterans. Connie, who is adorned with medals on her chest and dressed immaculately, exudes pride and composure. She is wearing dark sunglasses and a black cap embroidered with the initials "RH" (Royal Hospital). Her hands rest gently on her lap, and her posture is relaxed yet noble. The setting is a well-tended garden, with flowers and lush greenery creating a beautiful background. The image captures a moment of peaceful reflection, reverence, and timeless service, honouring the life and legacy of someone who has served her country with distinction.

13 May 2024; Royal Hospital Chelsea, London

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