A photographic presentation by Mark Stothard MA ARPS
At first glance, “Gleis 17” (Platform 17) in Berlin looks abandoned. A stretch of disused railway track, flanked by trees and silence.
But from 1941 to 1945, more than 50,000 Jewish Berliners were deported from this platform to ghettos and death camps across occupied Europe. Today, the site remains uncommercialised. No museum. No commentary. Just cast-steel markers set into the platform, listing the dates, destinations, and the numbers of those sent away.
It is a place where the weight of history is not spoken, but felt.
In this photographic talk, we will explore what it means to photograph silence, absence, and memory. This is not a history lecture, but a meditative visual journey, a series of still, intentional images accompanied by reflection. How do we approach sites of trauma with the camera? How does light become a metaphor? When do we press the shutter, and why?
What You Can Expect:
- A presentation of photographic work made at “Gleis 17” in Berlin
- Insight into the ethical and emotional process behind photographing memorial sites
- Reflections on absence, symbolism, and the emotional power of visual narrative
If you are located in the South West of England, the talk can be delivered in person at no extra cost, or if further afield via Zoom, and I’m happy to adapt the content to suit different audiences and formats.
Ideal for:
- Camera clubs, arts societies, history interest groups, and anyone who believes photography can ask questions, not just make records
Costs:
- The talk is £120, with £30 of that serving as a non-refundable deposit
About Mark
As a semi-retired, award-winning photographer with over 30 years of commercial experience, I continue to explore the emotional and narrative depth of image-making >> more
Check Availability & Book a Date
Use the calendar below to check availability and reserve a talk for your group. Due to limited slots, early bookings are advised.
Once your booking is confirmed, Zoom access details will be sent to you automatically. A recording of the talk will be available to view for up to 6 weeks after the event.
Got a question or would you prefer a chat? Feel free to get in touch:
email. mark @ guestspeaker.photography
tel. +44 33 34 44 54 64