The Valleys of Our Fathers

The Valleys of Our Fathers is an ongoing photographic study of a larger project called ‘The Land of My Fathers’, which explores Welsh identity through the landscapes of North and South Wales. This part of the project focuses on the South Wales valleys, a region deeply rooted in its coal mining past and the resilient communities shaped by its history. This black-and-white project reveals both the beauty and hardship of the place I call home.

For me, the Valleys embody hiraeth—a deep yearning for the past and a profound sense of belonging. Yet, this project isn’t just a nostalgic reflection. The Valleys are now facing environmental decline, economic dispossession, and societal neglect. Through my lens, I aim to capture how the past remains woven into the fabric of everyday life, shaping those who still live here. This work is a tribute to the strength of the people and the land, preserving the enduring connection between heritage, identity, and the landscape of Wales.