The Royal Photographic Society awards Honorary Fellowships to Falmouth staff and alumni
26 November 2024
© Yas Crawford. 2021. Cellular VIId, from the Series: Cellular Flow
Falmouth University is celebrating the remarkable achievements of Photography MA (Online) tutor Michelle Sank and Falmouth graduate Yas Crawford, who have been awarded Honorary Fellowships from The Royal Photographic Society (RPS). These esteemed accolades are reserved for individuals who have made significant contributions to the art, science, and knowledge of photography, with only eight Honorary Fellowships awarded each year.
Michelle Sank, a celebrated social documentary photographer and tutor at Falmouth since 2007, is renowned for her poignant and intimate portraits. Born in Cape Town, South Africa, and based in the UK since 1987, her work delves into themes of identity, community, and belonging, amplifying the voices of marginalised groups. Known for her striking compositions and sensitivity, Michelle’s photographs often highlight the nuances of adolescence and the connections between people and their environments. Earlier this year, her work was recognised with the Portraiture Award at the Sony World Photography Awards.
Reflecting on her Honorary Fellowship, Michelle said: "I feel very honoured to have been granted this Honorary Fellowship by the Royal Photographic Society. It is great to be acknowledged in this capacity and to have recognition of this personal journey."
Yas Crawford, a multidisciplinary fine art photographer and Falmouth graduate, brings a unique perspective to her craft by bridging art and science. After studying Geology at undergraduate level, Crawford completed her online master's in Photography at Falmouth in 2019. Her work, which often explores themes of human biology, neurological processes, and evolutionary change, visualises complex scientific concepts through innovative collaborations with global institutions. In 2021, Yas received the Art of Neuroscience Award, further cementing her reputation for blending cutting-edge research with artistic expression.
In response to receiving the Honorary Fellowship, Yas said: “This recognition reinforces my commitment to merging art and science through my work. Photography allows me to cross subject boundaries, work with other specialists and explore 'The Grey Space' between disciplines. Collaborating across disciplines has been instrumental in creating narratives that encourage dialogue around complex scientific topics.”
Reflecting on her experience of studying Photography MA (Online), Yas added: “Studying an MA in Photography from Falmouth University was a collaboration of learning and flexible study, and became part of my recovery from a chronic illness. Meeting and working with other students and tutors from all over the world became the inspiration for my early work in science and art, for which I am very grateful.”
These Honorary Fellowships highlight the exceptional talent within Falmouth University’s Institute of Photography and its continued impact on the global photography landscape.
Lead image: © Yas Crawford. 2021. Cellular VIId, from the series: Cellular Flow
See more of Michelle Sank's work by visiting her website and Instagram
View more of Yas Crawford's work by visiting her website and Instagram
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