Stonehenge is one of the world’s most recognizable monuments—often shrouded by legend and intrigue—but also serving a lasting reminder of our human need for connection and community. While it is a great space to reconnect with our past, it is also perfect for those who want to experience art in a new manner. This notion gave birth to “Echoes: Stone Circles, Community, and Heritage,” a beautiful new exhibition by British Heritage’s youth engagement program, Shout Out Loud, and British national arts charity, Photoworks. The event will showcase the work of multiple artists under 25, while this project focuses on their unique takes on the modern impact of the ancient sites.
All images were provided to the Phoblographer by press communications.
The exhibit will highlight the work of three photographers—Serena Burgis, Yuxi Hou, and Sally Barton—each focusing on thematic interpretations of the three ancient stone circle sites—Arbor Low and Nine Ladies in Derbyshire and Kingston Russell in Dorset. In their respective series, the artists explore their connection with the past and present in unique ways to the sites’ mystique.
The Nine Ladies Stone Circle site has an intriguing legend associated with its creation—nine women were turned to stone for dancing on the Sabbath. Nine Ladies has since been the site of various rituals and ceremonies, and in Barton’s “The Stones Are Ours,” she examines the relation of ritual, femininity, and resistance. Having worked with local schools, Barton also helps to empower future generations to think on these themes and how to make them their own.
In “Capturing Community Spirit,” Hou explores Arbor Low’s history and how the site continues to have modern relevance beyond being a monument site. In her own words, Hou states, “[Arbor Low] is a living space where traditions like paganism, shamanism, and contemporary spiritual practices intersect, fostering a unique community.”
Delving into the histories of many different cultures that we don’t typically think of has been the pet project of the photography world for the past decade or so. And at the center of it all is the idea of education about the various parts of humanity that we otherwise don’t know about or understand.
Lastly, Burgis’ project used Kingston Russell’s enigmatic history as a metaphor and opportunity to reflect on personal history and heritage. The British-Thai photographer explored these themes by inviting the local South Asian community to participate in the project as she reflected on her heritage as a second-generation mixed-race woman, weaving personal and historical narratives.
We are so proud of these three talented artists for the way they’ve invited audiences to reflect on the relationship between people and place. The bodies of work are diverse in photographic approach, but all offer playful insights into a new generation of artists grappling with heritage.
Danit Ariel, Curator, Photoworks
Danit Ariel, Curator, Photoworks
Whether you’re intrigued by ancient historical sites or are looking for an exploration into our need for community, this is an exhibition that’s sure to please. With Stonehenge as the backdrop, it’s a fitting place to showcase a great collection of work from these up-and-coming artists. As the first-ever photography showcase at Stonehenge, one will certainly be mesmerized by the past and present merging together for a brief period. It’s certainly an opportunity you do not want to miss.
“Echoes: Stone Circles, Community and Heritage” opens on Saturday, February 15, and runs until Sunday, September 7, 2025, at the Stonehenge Visitor Centre. You can pre-purchase tickets and learn more about the exhibition here.