Perry Ogden

I always enjoy photographing artists in their studios – particularly artists whose work I like. With Dorothy Cross there was the added bonus that her studio is in Connemara – a place I love, and a place I like to be. It had been designed by McCullough Mulvin and I was curious to see it. The studio didn’t disappoint: floor to ceiling north facing glass windows – my favourite light – affording a view up the Connemara coast. It was a beautiful sunny day and we could see for miles, though I know how the light can change and create many moods. Inside the studio, Dorothy’s work in progress: fragments of a life, half formed ideas. Dorothy had first come to Connemara in the ‘90s to qualify for her scuba diving licence and had spent a summer camping on the beach below. She had loved it so much that she bought a plot of land, then later a cottage across the road and built the studio.

My photos are generally very simple. I don’t care for contrivance or tricks. In this case, the setting and light were beautiful. We discussed what Dorothy should wear, looked at a few items of clothing and decided on her work boiler suit. I moved a few bits and pieces around, and then I thought she should be holding something: Dorothy said what about this?

Skin + Soul a documentary, by Ciara Nic Chormaic on the photography of Perry Ogden, will have its premiere at the Dublin International Film Festival on Tuesday March 3 at 6.30pm in the Irish Film Institute. perryogden.com diff.ie