Above/Below

Originally published as a collaborative photo essay in Northword Magazine by photographer Joseph Crawford and artist Allison Smith, it has since evolved into a multi-media show and features a short co-created film, Hands in the Water.

The Exhibit: Above/Below

The series Above/Below was inspired while free-diving on the west coast of Haida Gwaii. Above/Below was originally published as a collaborative photo-essay in Northword Magazine by photographer Joseph Crawford and artist Allison Smith, and has since evolved into a group exhibit. This is a multi-media show that combines Joseph Crawford’s underwater photography, Allison Smith’s visual art and written essay, and a short co-created film, Hands In the Water.

 The dynamic series explores the experience of submerging into the underwater world. It captures the cerebral experience of the transition between air to water mediums, and the subsequent change in sound, pressure and movement.  It explores the opposing movement, colors and changing geometry of water through film, photography, writing and abstract art.  The pieces capture the immense energy of the pacific swell, the rugged terrain and challenging weather, that require one to surrender to the elements. It is inspired by the relationship between humans and nature, where humans are not only a part of nature’s chaos but at her mercy.

About the Artists

ALLISON SMITH

Allison is contemporary visual artist, filmmaker and writer whose work is inspired by the wilderness, landscape and communities of Haida Gwaii and Southern Alberta - both of which she has called home. Allison’s work is informed by her experience in community as a public engagement facilitator where she has worked on complex social, environmental, education and resource development projects. Allison utilizes mixed media including pastels, acrylics, spray paint, charcoal, film and writing to intimately reconnect people with natural spaces.

Allison’s writing, including short fiction, has been published in Northword Magazine, Dote Magazine, and Yes & Yes. She has pursued creative writing courses from the University of Toronto Continuing Education Program and a series of recent short fiction was selected to be aired on 93.9FM, Smithers’ Radio.

JOSEPH CRAWFORD

Joseph is a Métis Canadian photographer and filmmaker. He originates in the foothills of the Rocky Mountains but has spent the past several years on Haida Gwaii.  He is currently pursuing a Master of Architecture at the University of Calgary, Faculty of Architecture, Planning and Landscape Architecture. Joseph’s work is deeply inspired by the energy and immersive aspect of underwater and remote natural environments. He aims to share his love for natural spaces by connecting viewers with these soul-feeding experiences. Joseph’s photography has been published in Northword Magazine, National Geographic Traveller, Coast Mountain Culture, Enroute Magazine and Tadswii’ Kaats’ii Hla. Joseph has directed films that have been finalists in the International Banff Mountain Film Festival and additionally his film work has been aired on Oasis HD and at the Toronto International Film Festival.

BRAID FILMS

Allison and Joseph are the Co-Founders of the media production company, Braid Films, that specializes in outdoor and immersive films in Canada’s Pacific Northwest. They have worked with clients including Parks Canada, The Council of the Haida Nation, Destination BC and Green Coast Kayaking. Their recent film, Eyes of Society was selected for the International Banff Mountain Film Festival, the DC Short Film Festival and aired on Air Canada’s In-Flight Entertainment. The film was exhibited across Canada in collaboration with a group of Canadian artists, as part of an Eyes of Society exhibit. This included an exhibition at the Robert Bateman centre in 2018.

INSTAGRAM

@allisonjoannesmith
@braidfilms
@jcrawfordstudio