Thomas Joshua Cooper, a renowned landscape photographer, has captivated audiences with his extraordinary journey of survival amidst the most extreme and remote locations on Earth. His story is a testament to the lengths one must go to in pursuit of artistic excellence, and it's a tale that demands attention and reflection. Cooper's work, characterized by large-format black and white photographs, has taken him to the brink of danger on numerous occasions, and his experiences are both awe-inspiring and deeply concerning. With a background in photography and a passion for the physicality of landscapes, Cooper's journey is a fascinating exploration of the human spirit and the lengths one will go to for their art.
A Brush with Death
Cooper's first encounter with death occurred in the jungles of Venezuela, a daunting territory filled with unknowns, including snakes and giant bugs. He found himself in a tent, covered by a mosquito net, when he woke up to an unbearable heat and a sense of unease. Upon inspection, he discovered a large bug feasting on his thigh, causing a panic that led to a bizarre attempt at cauterization using a burning lamp, resulting in third-degree burns. This close call was just the beginning of a series of life-threatening situations that would define his career.
Overcoming Adversity
In his pursuit of capturing the world's most extreme locations, Cooper has found himself in quicksand on the American border along the Rio Grande, a situation that required all his wits to overcome. He realized that the weight of his 20-kilo tripod could be his salvation, and with a clever extension of the tripod, he managed to free himself from the quicksand. These experiences, as Cooper describes them, were moments where he thought he was a 'dead duck,' but his resourcefulness and determination prevailed.
A Passion for the Physicality of Landscapes
Cooper's choice to focus on landscapes over people stems from his social awkwardness and a desire to understand the physicality of these places. He seeks to capture the essence of these locations, and in doing so, he has circumnavigated the globe, making photographs of the most extreme points and locations surrounding the Atlantic Ocean. His project, 'The World's Edge,' is a testament to his dedication and perseverance, resulting in hundreds of photographs that showcase the beauty and danger of these places.
A Pioneer in Photography
Cooper's work is not just about survival; it's about redefining the relationship between landscape, time, and the photographic image. He has become the only artist to have ever made photographs of the two poles, using an 1898 large-format camera and developing and printing the images by hand. This meticulous process adds to the allure and significance of his work, making it a true labor of love and dedication.
A Legacy in Education
Beyond his artistic achievements, Cooper has also left a lasting impact on the world of photography through his educational contributions. He founded the fine art photography course at the Glasgow School of Art (GSA), becoming the first of its kind in Europe. His role as the head of photography at GSA has helped shape generations of photographers, instilling in them a rigorous studio practice, deep technical knowledge, and a commitment to the craft of image-making.
An Honorary Doctorate
For his exceptional contributions to the School, photography, and the cultural and creative world, GSA conferred upon Cooper an honorary doctorate of letters. This recognition highlights the profound impact he has had on the field, both as an artist and an educator. Cooper's journey is a reminder that the pursuit of art can be a perilous path, but it is also a journey that inspires and captivates audiences worldwide.
In conclusion, Thomas Joshua Cooper's story is a testament to the power of human resilience and the lengths one will go to for their art. His work is a reminder that the beauty of the world can be found even in the most extreme and dangerous places, and his legacy as a photographer and educator will continue to inspire future generations.
