Caitlin Pharoah - Hidden Figures of the South West

About

The Bookery Presents: Devon-based photographer Caitlin Pharoah for an illustrated talk celebrating her spectacular book Hidden Figures of the South West.

Join us for an engaging illustrated talk with photographer Caitlin Pharoah as she presents images from Hidden Figures of the South West and shares the stories behind this remarkable photographic project. Hidden Figures of the South West brings together over 150 portraits of individuals working in under-recognised and endangered professions across the region from conservationists and traditional artisans to food producers, artists and makers. Each portrait is accompanied by words written by the subjects themselves, offering a rare first-person insight into lives and skills that risk being lost to time.

Travelling across the South West, often self-funded and working alone, Caitlin has documented seaweed harvesters on barnacle-covered shores, explored the intricate ecosystems of mushroom farms, and spent time with those preserving ancient crafts handed down through generations. Among the craftspeople featured are hedgelayers, woodlanders, and thatchers including figures such as Steven McCulloch (known as the Devon Hedgelayer), Richard Goodrick (a woodlander and mushroom grower), and the skilled thatching duo Anna Laing and Daisy Laing-Trengove. These examples highlight the extraordinary heritage and craftsmanship rooted in our region, and we hope some of these talented individuals will join us at the event.

Every year, skills and knowledge passed down through millennia disappear before they can be retained for the future, says Caitlin Pharoah. This project is about recognising those people while theres still time and encouraging us to value the hidden figures all around us.

Caitlin Pharoah is a Devon-based photographer and founder of Hummingbirds Photography. A First-Class Honours graduate in Film, Media and Photography from the University of Leeds, her work focuses on connection between people, place and heritage. Hidden Figures of the South West is her first published collection.
This event forms part of The Bookerys programme of author talks and cultural events and reflects the bookshops proud support for the National Year of Reading 2026.
At the end of the evening Catlin will be available to discuss her work, answer questions and sign copies of her book.