Abstract

Surfing is a deeply embodied and sensory practice through which meaning emerges from the dynamic relationship between body, movement, environment, and cultural experience. Situated within a practice-as-research framework, Mark’s research investigates how lens-based ethnography can engage with and represent the embodied and sensory experience of surfing through photographic and moving-image practice.

Whilst surfing has been widely represented through commercial and conventional imagery, these depictions often focus on idealised Pacific West Coast aesthetics, overlooking the lived experiences and material realities of surfing in the UK. In contrast, this research will consider how British surf culture—shaped by cold water, inconsistent conditions, and modest waves—produces distinct embodied experiences and alternative visual possibilities.

By integrating visual ethnography with practice-based research, the project will reconsider the camera as both observer and participant within embodied fieldwork, aiming to advance debates on visual representation, sensory methodologies, and embodied knowledge.

This body of practically-led research continues Mark’s fascination with the delineation of the everyday.

Interested in contributing to this research?

This project explores surfing and embodied experience through a lens-based practice. If you would like to learn more about participating, please view the participant information below.