DAVID WRIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY
DAVID WRIGHT
PHOTOGRAPHY
Modern Tribes of England
England has a diverse culture. Its differences can be viewed from many perspectives including politics, fashion, language, religion, class, customs, traditions and interests. My definition of a ‘tribe’ begins with a group of people who share one or more of these perspectives. However, it goes further to encompass a bond between members that manifests in a need to identify with each other. This becomes visible through the beliefs, behaviour, signs and signals the ‘tribe’ emanates.
It is possible for people to belong to more than one ‘tribe’ at any one time. Furthermore, the existence of these modern ‘tribes’ demonstrates one of the most important cultural values we share as human beings, the tolerance of other tribes. I believe that this is a vital aspect of being English.
The reason for my selection of certain groups over others as ‘tribes’ is reinforced by a very important underlying philosophy based on the concept of identity. We are all social animals by nature. Contemporary society is based upon community involvement. Together, we are greater than the sum of the individuals. In this respect, tribes that welcome new members become enriched and constantly evolving. Much has been written in the past few years about the importance of belonging to groups in order to combat isolation and depression. Some believe that belonging to a group can improve life expectancy and membership if multiple groups can have an even greater benefit. I am not going to argue that people should join groups for these reasons. What I believe from my work with groups is that they get people out of the house, meeting others and having fun. In this respect, they are living life to the full.
Modern Tribes of England documents some of the groups that go to make up our 21st century society.
David Wright
