The Valleys of Our Fathers

The Valleys of Our Fathers is the first chapter of my larger photographic study, The Land of My Fathers, which explores Welsh identity through the landscapes of North and South Wales. This series focuses on the South Wales valleys, a region deeply rooted in its coal mining past and the resilient communities shaped by it. 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.