About the exhibition

Woodland Sanctuary was a joint exhibition between photographers Simon Baxter and Joe Cornish. The work was gathered over the last six years, all of it within the North York Moors National Park.

For both photographers woodland has been a source of exploration, tranquility, meditation, artistic study and inspiration, and, especially during the Pandemic, a solace. The photography has been made in the eye witness tradition of the medium, but nevertheless reflects a contemporary aesthetic and philosophy.

The themes reflect the preoccupations and imaginative journeys of the photographers during their time in the woods. The images reflect the intense experience of studying trees in all weather conditions and all times of year.

The people

Artists and collaborators

Simon Baxter

Exhibitor

A self-proclaimed nemophilist, Simon has spent several years crafting photographs to celebrate the ever-changing beauty and restorative power of woodlands close to home. Simon’s first book, Gathering Time, was recently released to critical acclaim.

Joe Cornish

Exhibitor

Author of First Light and Scotland’s Mountains, Joe’s career has spanned four decades of revolutionary change in photography. He is a dedicated environmentalist, experienced public speaker, writer and thinker on landscape and image-making. Collaborating with Simon on Woodland Sanctuary epitomises his belief in working with fellow photographers.

Sean Tucker

Guest Speaker

Photographer, filmmaker and writer, based in the United Kingdom. In more recent years Sean runs a popular YouTube channel seeking to inspire other creatives, and in 2021 he published a book sharing his philosophy for the creative life called “The Meaning in the Making.”

Find out more

Mark Littlejohn

Guest Speaker

An outside photographer who lives for that wee moment in time that captures the heart. Learned his photography in the Lake District and is now trying to retire gracefully in Wester Ross

Lucy Lapwing

Guest Speaker

A self-taught naturalist, wildlife-lover and all round nature nerd. Lucy is keen to open up the world of wildlife for more people, inspiring a connection and passion for the creatures we share our homes, gardens and greenspaces with.

David Ward

Compère

David has spent forty years travelling the world with his camera. He is as passionate about teaching photography as he is about making photos. As well as numerous articles, David has written two critically acclaimed books on his craft; Landscape Within (2004) & Landscape Beyond (2008).

Plan your visit

Visitor information

The ‘Inspired by… Gallery’ is located at the The Moors National Park Centre in Danby, North Yorkshire.

The Moors National Park Centre is an historic visitor centre, set in an idyllic spot on the banks of the River Esk, near Danby. From the doorstep, you can see pretty much everything that makes the North York Moors National Park so special: moorland, woodland, farmland, miles of hedges and drystone walls, historic buildings – all basking in glorious peace and quiet.

More visitor information

Reflections

What visitors said

Without doubt the most inspiring photographic exhibition I have been to, a masterclass in woodland photography.”

NP

It’s a fabulous exhibition from two photographers at the top of their game. Highly recommended.

JA

Beautiful compassionate images by two wonderful photographers. A 'must see' sort of event.

Mark Littlejohn