Hannah Ahktar Health and Wellbeing

Hannah Akhtar is a 22 year old moving image student who recently decided to expand her knowledge and skills in photography which led her to study on the photography (BA hons) top-up course at University Campus Oldham. With the determination and passion to become a clinical photographer, Hannah’s latest project ‘Health and wellbeing in 2020’ was supposed to be exhibited in a medical practice however, due to Covid-19 she has decided to present her work virtually to showcase her enthusiasm for pastel colours and millennial trends to spark change within the medical field.

Artist statement

Living in a world where social media controls what we do and how we feel, it has been difficult at times to disconnect with this virtual reality and connect with my own self. Captivated by the aesthetic of social media photography, I have pursued an interest in understanding the ever-growing change of image composition. This investigation directed me to revisit the history of image composition in the advertisement industry and it was clear to me that after analysing each decade, the activities that individuals undertake within the society impact how some images are created. My exhibition ‘Health and wellbeing in 2020’ showcases health issues with a sequence of images which are curated with the youth in mind, with square formats, symmetry layered objects and contrasting colours. To construct these photographs, I base my compositions on a theme which I have pre-planned using social media as inspiration. I look for pastel coloured backdrops and pair it with a group of objects which are similar by category to create a striking contrast. Most of my work includes the use of props which is based on my liking to incorporate food with everyday items. Photography is a method that I am able to use to remove myself from social media and exercise my own reality through lively compositions. With this effort, I want to create an atmosphere that helps individuals feel creatively influenced by viewing my work and the interest to pursue a method of detaching themselves from the world.