Somerset photographer explores 'highs and lows' of breast cancer

The self-portraits explore her experiences with breast cancer

A photographer diagnosed with breast cancer is exploring the "highs and lows" she experienced during treatment through pictures.

Joanna Wilson started the Adios Lefty project after her diagnosis in 2016 and is now exhibiting her photos documenting life with cancer.

Ms Wilson, from Somerset, is having her work showcased at Bridgwater Arts Centre until Friday.

"I fell in love with photography," she said.

"After my biopsy, I was very bruised and that is when I decided to pick up the camera and start taking pictures of my journey.

"I wanted to do something to distract myself. At first it was just for me, but then it became a project.

"I wanted to make it worthwhile, going through cancer, I wanted to have something to show at the end of it."

The exhibition is being showcased at Bridgwater Arts Centre

The photographic self-portraits explore her emotional and physical experiences with breast cancer.

"Whilst sometimes brutal there is the beauty, hope and humour along the way," she said.

"I bought a DSLR camera 15 years ago and enrolled into a course in a college to learn how to use it.

"I enjoy photographing dancers and fine art - whatever is in my imagination really."

The project initially looked "inward" and then evolved into reflection of "self and the wider circle" of those also affected, she added.

Ms Wilson has produced a book as well as the exhibition

A Bridgwater Arts Centre spokesperson said: "Documentary style black and white images show the day-to-day treatment and consequences.

"The colour section uses a fine art approach with composite imagery that reflects and considers emotional response to progressing recovery."

Ms Wilson has also produced a book for the Adios Lefty project, with profits from sales going to support a local breast cancer charity.

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