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Antigua through my lens by Janie Conley-Johnson

from Antigua & Barbuda THE CITIZEN, page 66

Article from: Antigua & Barbuda THE CITIZEN

Digital Nomad

by Janie Conley-Johnson

Born in the UK with Jamaican heritage, Janie Conley-Johnson arrived on the shores of her adopted home, Antigua, 17 years ago and hasn’t looked back since. Mainly recognised in the twin islands as a creative designer and food photographer, her culinary images have illustrated the popular dining listings and recipe features in the Food & Drink Guide and the award-winning “Tablemanners” coffee-table cookbook. Having extensively explored much of Antigua she has not only ventured into the culture through her camera lens, but her independent publishing career allowed her to delve deep below the surface and journey into the heart of this twin-island state.

Most of your photos aren’t of the typical Antiguan idyllic beaches and turquoise waters. What inspires you on the island?

Through my love of hiking, I’ve discovered an entirely uncommon side of Antigua. One that is off the beaten path and far from mass tourism. Over the last five years, this pastime has allowed me to more closely examine my surroundings at a slower pace. By viewing subjects from different angles, I try to record the aesthetics of the islands, which aren’t commonly seen, or subjects which are often ignored.

Hitting the trail to explore Antigua & Barbuda by foot is energising on many levels. I’ve become inspired by capturing the mood of often overlooked aspects of the island’s abundant nature and charming scenery. I draw inspiration from everyday scenes in age-old villages, the beauty of sweeping farmlands, windswept coastlines and the intricate details of delicate plant life.

When photographing in nature, I immerse myself in a completely different environment, removed from the usual flow of time and speed. I can exaggerate the act of looking, to pause and document what I see.

When did photography become your passion?

Photography has continuously been part of my adult life. I’m a photography graduate with a background in archival digitisation. My career began with me working as a researcher in visual arts archives, museums and libraries and photographically preserving unique and valuable artworks. The combination of my archival background and creative skills have taught me to use photography as a way to document and communicate visually as well as intuitively look for alternative ways of seeing, recording and understanding the environment that shapes life and the wonderments of living.

Janie Conley-Johnson has an extensive collection of images of various aspects of Antigua & Barbuda. You can contact her through janie_bigtrip_conley@yahoo.com or instagram.com/janiedesigns

This article is from:

Antigua & Barbuda THE CITIZEN

by Antigua & Barbuda | THE CITIZEN