It's hardly news when an international sports star does an artsy photo shoot, but when Tommy Bowe appears in a tin hat, a cape and carrying a melon instead of a rugby ball, well we're going to take notice. Earlier today the artist responsible, Lisburn-based photgrapher Stephen Johnston (26) spoke to Balls.ie.
PO'H: Hi Stephen, so why Tommy Bowe? It must have been pretty cool having him as a subject.
SJ: The gallery owner, Oliver Gormley, arranged for Tommy Bowe to sit for me. Tommy came into the gallery and very patiently posed for photos for about 2-3 hours. It was brilliant working with him, (he's ) really fun and easy going. I think that shows in the work.
So what's the significance of the helmet, cape, melon and wheelbarrow?
I take random objects from the house, garage and loft that inspire me, and put them with the figure in random settings. This creates unique work that allows the viewer to come and form their own opinions.
Cheers for that Stephen. What about the World War One-style helmet? Was there a significance relating to the Irish and Ulstermen who died in that conflict?
No, the hat symbolises kind of a war-battle that I see being played out on the rugby pitch. It's not political or anything like that.
Good to know. Any plans to work with other sports stars or public figures?
I would be up for doing another series with another public figure in the future.
Nice. Looking forward to it. Thanks for your time.
The Gormley's Fine Art exhibition runs in Belfast until the end of February.
Image credit: Gormley Fine Art Dublin & Belfast
