“Captured in Time: Photography Lecturer Shines in Portrait of Britain Showcase”

A portrait captured by a photography lecturer from the University of Sunderland has gained recognition from the British Journal of Photography.

Johannah Churchill’s photographic image of Yann Kimpouni, a part of the Medical Engineering staff team at Newcastle Hospitals, has been featured in the Portrait of Britain Volume 7 edition of the British Journal of Photography, having made the shortlist in this esteemed annual contest.

This portrait belongs to Johannah’s NHS Darkroom series, initiated by Newcastle Hospitals Charity in May 2023 as a component of its Arts Programme, in collaboration with the Northern Centre of Photography at the University.

The initial stage of the initiative entailed the staff of Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, including Abbas Khushnood, Gerry Jones, Shaden Zuhairy, and Yann Kimpouni, having their portraits taken across Trust locations, along with sessions in a photography darkroom where they produced their own images taken with 35mm film.

Johannah, who teaches Contemporary Photography at the University of Sunderland, expressed: “Newcastle Hospitals Charity is assisting NHS professionals in honoring their peers and contributions to high-quality healthcare by capturing images of one another at their workplaces. Besides being photographed by me, the project also allows for some moments of contemplation and cross-disciplinary team building along with all the wonderful, positive aspects of working in a black-and-white darkroom.

“We are examining what it means to care and illuminating some of its effects. Taking time to slow down is essential. It’s not something that is easily found in these times. The group from last year was an absolute pleasure to collaborate with. The current climate within the NHS is challenging, and it is crucial to ensure we do not take individuals for granted.”

Katie Newell, Head of Arts Programmes at Newcastle Hospitals Charity, remarked: “We are thrilled that Johannah’s portrait of Newcastle Hospitals staff member Yann has been included in Portrait of Britain Volume 7.

“We are ever appreciative of staff who dedicate their time to our arts initiatives and encourage them to engage creatively for their mental health. Johannah’s portraits of Trust staff are exhibited throughout the hospital, and we receive frequent positive feedback regarding their quality, so it is wonderful to see this work gain broader acknowledgment through the awards.”

Johannah is a distinguished photographer who previously served as a diabetic nursing lead. She produced the poignant image “Melanie, March 2020,” which became emblematic of the UK’s struggle against COVID-19.

Johannah frequently depicts NHS personnel, bringing visibility to the diverse professional teams who continue to provide care.

The NHS Darkroom exhibit can be viewed on Level 3 of the Leazes Wing at the Royal Victoria Infirmary (RVI) or Level 2 at the Freeman Hospital along the corridor leading to the Northern Centre for Cancer Care. The second phase of the project will also soon be displayed outside the RVI location.