claudine Burgess, A landscape of Bras (PLACES 2024)

Web:

www.claudineburgessphotography.com

While driving from Queenstown to Wanaka during the Easter holiday 2024, I stumbled upon a scene that deeply resonated with me: a landscape adorned with bras. This sight, set against the backdrop of a farmer's fence, was both iconic and profoundly touching. These bras weren't mere garments casually discarded; they were left there as a symbol of solidarity, support, and remembrance for those who had succumbed to breast cancer. As I captured the image of this bra-clad fence, it stirred memories of my own battle with breast cancer back in 2011. That period of my life was shrouded in uncertainty and darkness. Yet, amidst the turmoil, photography emerged as my saving grace. Holding my camera in hand, I found solace and distraction. Standing before that fence, the significance of my passion for photography became crystal clear. Navigating through the trials of my diagnosis, which I aptly named "Mr. C," felt like ascending mountains, each step a grueling challenge. Yet, with each hurdle overcome, the view from the summit became more breathtaking. It was up there, amidst the struggle and triumph, that I discovered a newfound appreciation for life's opportunities. For me, photography wasn't just a hobby—it was a lifeline. And this photo, capturing the bras on the fence, tells a poignant tale: one of resilience, unity, and the assurance that no one walks the path of breast cancer alone. Each bra left behind carries its own narrative, a testament to the strength and courage of those who wore them.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.