The city may be on lockdown, but don’t fret—Joanna Jackson’s A Year in the Life of Richmond Park brings the beauty of London to you. I came across this book while planning a spring trip to Richmond Park, but when COVID-19 cancelled those plans I had to compromise.
A Year in the Life of Richmond Park is a visual essay exploring life in London’s largest open space. Jackson creates a photographic journey through the park, dividing the book into seasons: winter, spring, summer and autumn. In relation to each season, Jackson examines the behaviour of significant wildlife, including various kinds of deer, birds and even amphibians. And from towering trees to fragile fungi, the park’s flora is also centre stage.
What I love about Jackson’s A Year in the Life of Richmond Park is her photographic style. Nothing screams “deeper meaning”; the images are remarkable on their own. As a photography student, I’m used to conceptual photos that symbolize larger themes, but oddly enough, my favourite photos in this book are of trees across the park. Jackson photographs an old oak tree through the seasons, sunsets beyond tall woods, and snow covered branches up close. Her photography may be simple, but as a result it perfectly captures Richmond Park’s breath-taking sights.
While Jackson’s photos may speak for themselves, her writing is just as engaging. I learned about Richmond Park’s rich history, including its role as a military encampment in World War I. Read on and you’ll learn the routines of the park, from deer movement to weather patterns. Depending on what fauna or flora you’re interested in, Jackson’s photography and writing may help you decide when to visit Richmond Park, and where to head when you get there.
A photographer myself, I was truly inspired by Jackson’s work. While I normally practice portraiture, A Year in the Life of Richmond Park convinced me to bring a camera on my walks to the local park. Since seeing Jackson’s images, I have attempted to see London in a natural way, photographing rolling greens and birds perched on branches. I’ve gained a new perspective of city life, and realised it’s not all crowded trains and busy streets.
Despite my praise, I would not recommend A Year in the Life of Richmond Park to teachers and students. Though Jackson’s images and writing may coax you through quarantine, her book is not ground-breaking. There are no political or social themes—Jackson’s goal was simply to share the beauty of London’s largest open space. So while her book may not be ideal for the classroom, it could make a great addition to your personal bookshelf!
Though it may not beat the real thing, A Year in the Life of Richmond Park is an engaging visual essay depicting the ebb and flow of natural life in one of London’s many hidden gems.
– Shaelyn Stout