Capturing love and resilience: A Q&A with Photography student Matt Holloway
20 December 2024
Meet Matt Holloway, a Documentary & Editorial Photography BA(Hons) student whose deeply personal project, Meningioma, explores his mother’s diagnosis with a brain tumour. Developed as part of a course module titled People & Passion, Matt used the medium of photography and multimedia to capture not just the challenges of this experience but also the enduring love and strength within his family.
We spoke to Matt about the inspiration behind his work, the emotional and creative challenges he faced, and how his time at university has shaped his artistic voice.
Could you tell us about your project Meningioma, and the inspiration behind it?
For my Documentary & Editorial Photography degree, we were given a brief titled People & Passion, where we need to find and tell the story of someone's passion in a 3-5 minute multimedia video. I've always been inspired by my mum; she's one of the most caring, passionate, and loving people in my life, and I'm incredibly grateful for her. I've long wanted to express this adoration in one of my projects.
Over the summer, she was diagnosed with a brain tumour after suffering a seizure at four in the morning. I vividly remember accompanying her in the ambulance. This experience made me decide to tell her story, using this terrifying situation to create a narrative of love and passion for family.
Documentary & Editorial Photography student, Matt Holloway has produced this short film, 'Meningioma' which documents his mum's diagnosis of a brain tumour.
How did you approach documenting such a personal and emotional subject?
This project was very tricky to approach. I wasn’t sure if my emotional attachment might skew the objectivity of the piece. I started bringing the camera with me whenever I visited her, to help her get comfortable with it being around. I continuously communicated my plans to her and ensured she was on board with everything. Explaining my vision was always a priority, allowing her to have input as well.
Recording the audio was a bit stop-and-start, as we both cried every ten minutes, but we powered on and communicated throughout the process. I think the key thing is trust. I knew she trusted me to tell her story sensitively and with empathy, but I also felt rather odd presenting my mum to the world in this way.
What were some of the challenges you faced while working on this project, both creatively and personally?
Personally, it was very hard. Trying to process and come to terms with my mum having a small golf ball-sized tumour in her head, while also filming this project, was very difficult, but I knew it was important. I felt a lot of pressure to get it right because I didn’t want to misrepresent my mum, especially in this vulnerable state. The creative part came naturally, and I never photographed anything my family was uncomfortable with.
Sequencing the images in post-production was very challenging. I used the audio as the main narrative device and let the imagery create a non-linear tone. However, aligning two narratives in a non-linear way, as I learned, is very hard.
What aspects of the course have been most helpful in preparing you to tackle meaningful and challenging subjects?
The self-led structure of the degree is incredibly valuable, allowing me to develop a strong creative moral compass to navigate this deeply personal subject. However, this self-led aspect is also complemented by expert lecturers who guide you back on track if you need support. I consulted my tutors multiple times throughout the project, refining my drafts until I reached my final version.
The module is organised in such a meaningful way that I felt supported throughout, while still having my own creative voice and ethical standing.
How has the university environment helped you explore and refine your artistic voice?
Being surrounded by creatives is extremely beneficial. I am constantly showing my work to my peers to get their opinions. The facilities, such as the camera stores, are extensive and have allowed me to express my creative vision throughout my time at university.
Falmouth University is located in one of the most beautiful parts of the UK. Creatively, it is so beneficial to get some breathing space from your work. Going for a swim, hike, or kayak allows me to get out of my creative bubble and come back with fresh eyes.
What’s next for you as a photographer? Are there any other subjects you’re passionate about exploring?
Next, I want to focus on refugee stories. I am currently working on a video piece about a Ukrainian refugee living and studying in Falmouth. I am passionate about expressing important stories that can serve as vehicles for change. This module has made me realise that I’m more of a storyteller than specifically a photographer, so I’d like to explore other mediums and practices further.
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