Between 2018 and 2019 I embarked on a project I have wanted to do for many years. I have always been fascinated with the landscape of and History of Wales and have spent many a day gazing at its mysterious landscape wondering what secrets lie within the mountains. From an early age I took a keen interest in the deserted Slate quarrying sites that lie all over North Wales. Apart from visits to Lechwedd and Glodfa Ganol. 

I’ve no idea what triggered my interest. The scale, engineering, remoteness or the combination of nature beautifully re-healing the scars caused by industry and the ghostly silence you encounter when you visit some of these locations. All of these things still appeal to myself and many others today. Upon getting my own film equipment, this was the first project I wanted to do. Due to the remoteness of these locations, there is a lot of Industrial archaeology still remaining, frozen in time. 

Slowly but surely, most of these incredible places are being consumed by the landscapes that surround them. With this film I wanted to create a record of these sites along with their ambitious engineering solutions which still stand today, all of which are surrounded by the most awe inspiring scenery. As well as this, I wanted to pay homage to the individuals who faced great danger on a daily basis just to put bread on the table and those that remain its shadow. 

Recently, the industry has applied for World Heritage status, which will potentially protect many of these sites and invest in the communities that surround them. For more info visit www.llechi.cymru/LlechiCymru.aspx 

*Most of these sites have been long abandoned with buildings and spoil tips being very unstable at times. Do not risk going underground unless you have a guide and the appropriate equipment.....there are so many hidden dangers. 

Filming Locations in North Wales; 

Dinorwic, Dorothea, Pen-Yr-Orsedd, Rhiwbach, Cwt Y Bugail, Maenofferen, Cwmorthin, Rhosydd, Conglog, Wrysgan, Ratgoed, Aberllefenni, Minllyn. 

Equipment:

Panasonic GH5s & GH5, Sigma 18-35mm Art Lens, Lumix 12-35mm Vario, Zhiyun Crane Plus Gimbal, DJI Mavic Pro Drone….various torches & lights.