In Our Backyard – Underwater Photography by Oliver Milsom

There is so much we don’t know of and have never seen in the ocean. Last Sunday we got a small glimpse through the eyes of marine photographer Oliver Milsom as the Queens Parks Gallery was transformed into a scene of radiant ocean blues for the exhibit entitled “Our Back Yard”. The enigma of his lifelong love affair with the ocean shone through the stunning captures of sea creatures made from photographs taken all over the world. The comfort and range of the young artist who comments that “the oceans of the world are my playground” was clearly evident and seen through the diversity and composition of his work and the different creatures that caught the attention of his lens. From moody images of Humpback whales to controversial sharks shot up close, cute cuttlefish and some of the most colourful shrimp one could ever see, this exhibit certainly stands alluring to connoisseurs of art, and lovers of the ocean alike.

After becoming interested in photography while at school in New York, Oliver took a diving trip to Tahiti with world-renowned underwater photographer Douglas Seifer, who has since been his mentor. It was then that his passion for marine photography flourished. Oliver grew up between the islands of Mustique (a tiny island in the archipelago nation of St. Vincent and the Grenadines) and his homeland Barbados. He was frequently in an ocean atmosphere nurtured by a Caribbean upbringing, and other mentors such as the likes of legendary Mr. Basil Charles (proprietor of the infamous seaside ‘Basil’s Bar’ on the island of Mustique). Oliver’s broughtupsy instilled a deep sense of appreciation, purpose and personal responsibility surrounding the ocean. This strong connection was not only apparent through the vivid imagery on display, but also through Oliver’s own aspirations to push for the conservation of ocean species by showing their wonder and vast assemblages through his work.

The exhibit curated by Janice Whittle was well-orchestrated, holding the keen attention of a good turn out of viewers from across the Caribbean. It was no surprise that the gallery was a buzz as many discussed the striking photographs over drinks and light refreshments as the evening progressed.
Kudos to Oliver and cheers to all the young artists making waves across the island.

The exhibition opened on Sunday 8th March and will be available for viewing at the Queens Park Gallery until Saturday, April 4 from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm (Closed for lunch 1:30 pm-2:30 pm).

Feel free to contact Oliver Milsom via email oliewog@gmail.com, call (246)235-1060 or visit www.olivermilsom.com

Click here to see the photo album of the exhibition.