Rest a while and Remember

Ian Mitton

The process of dedicating a bench to a deceased friend or relative and placing it in a favourite location is a fascinating reflection upon the process of mourning and remembrance. We become a participant in this process as we sit on the bench and enjoy (or otherwise) the view. This is a celebration, which is sometimes baffling, sometimes ironic but always intriguing.


Through photographing the outlook from these benches and presenting the image with the dedication I am attempting to explore the relationship between a sense of place and unknown individuals. Sometimes these seats are in obviously charming places, others in venues without any visible charisma. Yet they all represent a need in the donor to celebrate a life.

venue: Hereford Cathedral