David Hurn's Photographic Project

Latest photographs.

Many more can be seen further down the page.
Torchlight Carol Service, Tintern Abbey, 2nd December 2023
I have photographed many previous gatherings - this was the chilliest. However it did not seem to affect numbers or enjoyment. Two choirs, Widen School and St Briavels Ukraine Hub, led the singing and Rotary organised everything.
Halloween, Saturday 28th October 2023
Hallowen seemingly invented - passed down from - Celtic Irish Samhain. In Tintern, it appears, a tradition where children dress up their parents and take them to a fun party. Pope Gregory 111 said it should be on November 1st. Whatever, the Tintern Hall did everyone proud and I enjoyed the event.
50th Birthday Party, Saturday 10th June 2023
I was invited to J0's 50th Birthday. Up in the woods, five minutes climb for some, half and hour for a few of us. Easy to find, follow the balloons.
Opening of the refurbished playground, Saturday 4th June 2023
I am sometimes amazed by how lucky I have been to wander the world simply recording, as accurately as I can, what I see and interested me.
Can there be anything more enjoyable than the opening of a new children’s playground? The old one was outdated and I presume even potentially dangerous. The new is modern and safe. The sound of children is uplifting - their courage amazing, they seem to have complete faith in their own bodies.
It is an example of village community at its best - people, each in their own way, raised £64,505.27.
In theory opening was the cutting of a red ribbon on the swings.
Tintern Duck Race, Saturday 27th May 2023
A 'Duck Race' relies on flowing water and the river Wye is perfect. Duck Races seem to be contested all over the world. One on the Thames in 2008 had 259,000 racers. In 2001, 50,000 ducks floated past in Cologne.
Spectators buy a numbered ticket. The proceeds go to charity. In theory in Tintern,1000 rubber/plastic? ducks are thrown over Brockweir Bridge - to finish, once opposite the 'Moon & Sixpence, and now beside St Michaels Church. It appears the the ducks were not always totally gathered and many escaped to ride the rapids to Chepstow and presumably back and forward on the tide.
It's a charming tradition and as long as now the racers are all collected no environmental problems occur. The winner was number 57.
Coronation of King Charles III, Saturday 6th May 2023
There was a large screen set up in the village hall and the BBC explain these events so well.

However I suspect most residents initially followed the pageant at home, the hall was sparse at 10.30 but was full at 1pm, food time. At £2 a box I can’t remember ever having a more satisfying meal - who ever though of inviting the fish and chip van, genius - Soon the hall was full of the wonderful sound of young children and parents. In the village the number of babies/youngsters has blossomed, I am sure to the delight of everyone. They are the basis of community - plus volunteers - the hall volunteers always do a splendid job - we are very lucky.
Tintern Local Produce Market, 08 April 2023
The first Tintern Local Produce Market opened. In my opinion a delightful success. So often this sort of gathering has too much dire. This time the hall was completely full of stuff people obviously cared about. A Produce Market stands or falls by vegetables. The opening table - largest in the building - was full of food that just looked so much more enticing than you could ever see in a supermarket, great start. I loved a little stall showing with great love strange mushrooms with a minder bursting with loving information. To many goodies to mention here but all splendid - I noticed the home made, on the spot, Welsh cakes soon sold out, I left clutching a bag. All a wonderful experience. I do so hope everyone made a profit.
Over 60s Lunch at The Wild Hare, 28 February 2023
Change of venue: The annual over 60’s lunch was this year hosted in the ‘Wild Hare’. What a perfect location. Thames Green, elegant restaurant, gave all a feeling of occasion. Near 50 turned up for a truly excellent meal. At least 12 helpers buzzed around. I am sure a memorable time was felt by all.
I presume ‘The Wild Hare’ volunteered their space and presumably cooked the meal. I never know who the volunteers are but they are always happy and hard working. Thanks to all. The village at its best.
I hope the vibes filter around and the restaurant is full every night, with outside and inside visitors, from now on.
Thanksgiving, 14th February 2023
Yesterday I attended a ‘Thanksgiving for the life of Alan Townsend’, in an exceptionally well attended Crematorium.
I wasn’t really a close friend but I had so much respect for the man. He had what every village needs- energy.
When I first came to Tintern my cottage was in a mess. He always sorted my problems out, never fuss, always honestly. I love skill and reliability. He would be surprised how much I will miss him, not only as a helper but as a man.
Carol Service, St Michael's Church, Christmas Eve 2022
I can think of no more joyous sound that the babble of children in a space where many think there should be silence - the first test of freedom.

There is something magic about a church full of people - each of whom might not have the worlds most melodious voice - but fitting together like a jigsaw and ending up being totally uplifting.
Christingle Service, Saturday 17th December 2022
It was a cold day but it has been colder! Here are two pictures of a semi-frozen Wye in Tintern in 1981 and 2010.
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1981
Stacks Image 2337
2010
Despite the cold there was a good turnout in St Michael’s Church for Lantern-Making, a Lantern Parade, carols sung by Children of Llandogo School - accompanied by guitar. Followed by mince pies and squash - plus punch, presumably for the grown ups.
It was a joyous and a fun few hours.
Remembrance Service, Sunday 13th November 2022
Remembrance Day is a memorial day observed in Commonwealth member states since the end of the First World War to honour armed forces members who have died in the line of duty.
The Royal British Legion states "The Act of Remembrance is brief and non-religious, making it exceptionally well-suited to personalised commemorations. You may assemble whatever readings, music or other elements you wish to accompany the Act of Remembrance in order to make your own ceremony or event relevant to your particular community. Services should be inclusive of all members of the community.
My instinct is that it is now thought by the young to commemorate all who have died in any war.
Darts Fundraiser, Saturday 12th November 2022
Darts or dart-throwing is a competitive sport in which two or more players bare-handedly throw small sharp-pointed missiles known as darts at a round target known as a dartboard - Wikipedia.

Darts, game or sports, seems to me the most democratic of activities. Anyone from about nine to ninety years of age, if you have 7ft 9 I/4inches of space, can participate. The very best professional equipment - say two sets of darts and a board - would cost you less that £100. In what other area could the young potentially become a world champion in a few years? 'Tintern darts player, world champion', why not. Every household should have a board.
Halloween Fun, Saturday 29th October 2022
What an enjoyable, crowded, afternoon and evening. There had been a period in Tintern when I felt that sense of community was waining. It’s certainly back. I feel there are now many more young with young children who are were willing to put themselves out, to make an effort. To dress up in exotic costumes - three categories of fancy dress, every person deserving of a prize if only for effort. As always excellent food was on tap. There was a treasure trail, and games.
Michaelmas Festival, 23 & 24 September 2022
The festival this year was a dual occasion. Celebration of Michaelmas and information about the refurbishment of the lovely old St Michael's Church - the original foundations of this site as a Christian church were in 765AD, well pre the building of the Abbey.

I indulged in splendid cream tea with a variety of scones available ranging from vegan to those definitely designed to put on weight. I listened to entertainment by The Early Music Group, Fiona and Nick classical duo, Simon Cottle classical guitar, and The Rob Connolly Band. The atmosphere was distinctly joyous.
HM Queen Elizabeth ll - Remembered
Tintern seemed to deal with the death of the Queen in its now normal understated way.
Naming Ceremony for Eirlys, Saturday 21st August 2022
Baby Eirlys was given a non-religious naming ceremony party in the Village Hall. Parents looked suitably proud and charmingly nervous. Baby was obviously enjoying everything. Plenty of conversation and really splendid food - beautifully presented and very fresh. When people come together community can be very positive.

Tintern Garden Club 47th Annual Show, August 13th 2022
I so enjoy photographing in the village, mainly events, of which the Annual Garden Club show is a particular favourite. It always has such charm and no pretensions. Despite the record heat it was surprisingly well attended, including a new two-week-old looking very contented. My favourite class winner was three little carrots like something out of Gullivers Travels.

Over 60s Afternoon Tea, July 29th 2022
Coming to live in Tintern, roughly fifty years ago, was perhaps the most sensible decision of my life.
Recording change always keeps me feeling photography can be worth while. I love noticing the progression of personnel in annual activities. New youth are getting involved.

Gatherings around food are always joyous and the essence of community.

Folk on the Lawn, 16th-17th July 2022
I first enjoyed Folk Music visiting, in the late 60's, the 'Wickenburg (Arizona) Blue Grass Festival'. It was there I befriended the 'Nitty Gritty Dirt Band', particularly Chris Darrow whom I stayed in close contact with until he died just a couple of years ago.

The Festival in Tintern is obviously more gentle but extremely enjoyable. The standard of most groups extremely high. If I had children I would already be booking for next year. They would love it and maybe learn to love music, maybe even wish to learn to play.

2022 was dominated by heat and suncream.

Tintern Fete, 25th June 2022
It's the end of June and the main test of togetherness, from the village, after lockdowns, was the village Fete 'Mad Hatters Tea Party' - is it only me or was it a little low key in comparison with past years?

I found the 'stalls' sadly no more enticing than the local markets. However the weather was perfect, not too hot and the rain stayed away. Bubbles, as always are wonderful for young children, to the delight of parents, they must be exhausted by the time they get home to bed. There was the, now normal, good standard of food outside, while inside the hall, tea and cakes did us proud. What I really liked - although I am not a drinker - was Beer from the local Kingstone Brewery, on show and to be bought from the barrels. Bottles are beautifully designed.

The playground was much used - the potential new must be supported.

I thought the two most innovative attractions were 'Free Samurai' classes, and the Circus workshop.

Two and a half hours is now my maximum working, I was exhausted.
Platinum Jubilee Lunch, 3rd June 2022
Photography deals very well with the passage of time. I had photographed the village celebration parade for the Queens Silver Jubilee in 1977. The Jubilee Lunch, 2022, was a far more subdued event.
This was 1977…
…and this was 2022
Remembrance event for Gem, 16th April 2022
I was very moved to be asked if I would wish to document an event to remember Gem on his birthday. It showed great trust and that means a lot to me.

Gem died during the covid shut down. His parents, relatives and friends could not show him the closure/ respect/love they would have liked.

This love radiated in the churchyard of St Michaels Church in Tintern. Parents, relatives, friends walked from the station, along the river bank, collected flowers and then stood in comparative silence around the grave. It was very dignified and moving. Jimmy sang a song in very tender and hushed tones, I am not a believer but I was extremely moved, I felt all was the church at its prime.

For me this is the best of photography usage. The recording of an important happening for posterity.
Click to see full-size images.
Tintern Wine Tasting, 7th February 2022
Wine has been produced for thousands of years, there is concrete evidence of ancient wine production in Georgia from c. 6000 BC.

Wine basically makes itself. Leave a grape unattended it will be attacked by a microscopic mushroom called yeast. The yeast turns the sugar in the grape into heat, carbon dioxide and most importantly, alcohol. Over time producers have learned to control the process to make wine better.

I am teetotal - a word I don’t like, it seems slightly smug.

I put out the post for help in restarting my exploration of life in my village, Tintern. The first reply I got was a positive one from ’Tintern Wine Tasting’. The meeting was held in St Michaels church - somehow wine in a church seemed appropriate. 16 members arrived. In theory they were all to individually decide which wines were which among three white, three red. I found the rituals of smelling and looking intriguing but what I most liked were the smiles and laughter. Not only a wine club but a social club. That must be good.
Click to see full-size images.
Torchlight Carol Service at Tintern Abbey. Saturday 4th December 2021
A good starting project. After not having taken many pictures in the last eighteen months, I was nervous, practice makes perfect and lack of practice shows.

However the vibes during the Christmas Service are always uplifting. What ever your religious beliefs, or none, there is something magical about mass singing within the grounds of our extraordinary Abbey. I was surprised by the turnout, I have no accurate idea how many, but I am guessing at least a thousand - including dogs. I was not overwhelmed by faces from the village - I suspect most participants were from farther afield.

Presumably because of some Covid-19 rule the event was held on the periphery of the main structure. The main background singing was by the enthusiastic ‘Wyedean School Choir. The whole was organised by, and I think rather well, Chepstow & District Rotary Club.

I am glad I attended and feel better for it. Sadly I left early - annoyingly I get tired.
Click to see full-size images.
David Hurn becomes recipient of the 2021 Lucie Award for Achievement in Documentary

David Hurn has been recognised by The Lucie Awards, the premiere annual event honouring the greatest achievements in photography. The photography community from around the globe pays tribute to the most outstanding people in the field. Recipients normally receive their Lucie statues during a spectacular evening at the Lucie Awards in New York. This time round in October 2021, however, Covid required that the event was held online. Some of David's work in recording village life in Tintern can be viewed further down this page.
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A renowned Magnum photographer records Tintern village life.

World-renowned photographer David Hurn has a longstanding international reputation as one of Britain’s most influential reportage photographers. He lives in Tintern and has recorded much of what happens in the village over a period of several years.
Let David know if you have a Tintern family or group event coming up. He would love to photograph it - at no cost.
He is very happy to be invited to any village event or to family occasions such as special birthdays, anniversaries, reunions, baptisms and weddings (although of course not as the 'official' photographer but as an observer). He can be contacted by phone on 01291 689358 or by email hurn@tintern.u-net.com.
David has already recorded his reflections on many village events, including those shown below.
Maybe you are a young aspiring journalist?
Here's a golden opportunity for any young person, possibly even still at school, who would like to find out by 'doing' whether reportage is likely to be, for them, an interesting profession. David would be very happy to work with young people, one at a time, to be with him at individual events. If you are interested, you can get in touch with David using the contact details above.
Would you like to help in going through his village photographs and devising some captions?
As David Hurn's Tintern village collection builds up there is a danger that details regarding individual photographs will eventually become hard to recall. If you are interested in David's work and would like to get involved, do get in touch with him. You could be making a valuable contribution to the social history of Tintern as well as having the chance to work alongside a celebrated photographer.
Remembrance Service, 14th November 2021
I have gently eased back into photographing in Tintern again.
My first recording was of the REMEMBRANCE Service held on Leytons Field, on 14th November.
It was very tender and moving.
I found myself tentative, I was affected.
Click to see full-size images.
Picnic at The Museum of the Moon, Tintern Abbey, Friday 18th May 2018
I am nearly clear of talks and workshops so am slowly returning to shooting pictures.
A good starting point was ‘The Museum of the Moon’ held in Tintern Abbey as part of the Wye Valley River Festival.
Apparently, Admiral John Byng - a Royal Navy officer who was notoriously court-martialled and shot dead by a firing squad. - wrote in the 18th century, ’The way to enjoy Tintern Abbey properly … is to bring wines, cold meat, with corn for the horses; bread, beer, cider and commonly salmon … and spread your table in the ruins’.
Good advice. Fun was had by many picnicking in the grounds. On hand was a large sculpture by Luke Jerram of the moon, suspended high in the Abbey itself, very impressive.
Click to see full-size images.
The Christening of Alice Kay Carter, 8th April 2018
No sooner had I decided to renew my photographing happenings in Tintern village than Joe Carter immediately invited me to a Christening in Saint Michael's. What a perfect re-start. The ceremony was exceptionally well attended. Much joy all around. I know so many friendly faces - but my memory allows for few remembrances of names. Food in the village hall after was amazing.
Jubilee Celebrations 2012
Halloween Night 2012
Torchlight Procession at the Abbey December 2012
Young Children’s Christmas Party 2012
Children’s Christingle Service 2012
Over 60s’ Christmas Lunch 2012
Tintern Ladies Literary Circle zip wire event March 2013
Tintern Film Night March 2013
Village Produce Association Flower Arranging Demonstration April 2013
“Bracken bashing” in St Mary’s Churchyard May 2013
Duck Race May 2013
Dog Show June 2013
Tintern Summer Fete July 2013
Christening at St Michael’s July 2013
Folk Festival July 2013
Village Produce Show August 2013
Sung Vespers in Tintern Abbey September 2013
Victorian Day at The Old Station September 2013
Toy Service at St Michael’s December 2013
Abbey Torchlight Carols December 2013
Christingle Service
Children's Christmas Party
Seniors' Christmas Lunch
Christmas Lunch with Friends
Brigade Band Weekend
River Wye Festival
John Allen funeral
School Reunion
Brigade Acivity Weekend
New Historians meeting
Nora's 10th
Summer Fete 2014
Dog Show
Folk on the Lawn
Sacred Sight & Sound Festival St Michael's
Sacred Sight and Sound Festival July 2014
Golden Wedding July 2014
Sung Vespers Nov 2014
Theo Klinkert's baptism, November 2014
…and some older photographs from the 1970s