My passion for the visual arts and communication is clearly demonstrated through my keen interest in photography, particularly portraiture. After buying my first camera at the age of 11, I have researched and gained invaluable information from artists, books, and online resources to teach myself the art of photography. My greatest interests involve understanding, researching, and writing essays on how the visual arts have had such an impact on the development of society; fostering dialogue in support of the adversities faced by minority groups. The recognition of oppression of race, gender and sexuality are all prevalent issues that the visual arts have helped shed light on. This photograph was formed as part of my final piece for my A-Levels last year, looking at the theme of mental health. Alfie Crispin