Local photographer opens studio and coffee kiosk in Colyton

Local photographer George Chesterton has opened a new studio and coffee kiosk in Colyton.

The FINN Studio opened at Umborne Bridge in December but, when the third national lockdown was announced, George diversified the business and opened a takeaway coffee kiosk next door.

The kiosk has quickly become a popular spot for both residents and visitors to enjoy drinks from The Coffee Factory, based just a few miles away at Seaton Junction, with outdoor seating overlooking the River Coly.

In the adjoining studio and gallery, George is displaying his dramatic and surreal landscapes taken on his extensive travels around the world, as well as local landscapes.

Working exclusively on 35mm film stocks both black and white and colour George champions the fragility of working with negatives so that he can share his collection of film photography in the modern age.

With his bold, no distraction style, the visual drama and artistry of his photographs are intense and authentic. The scratches and grain compliment the drama of the landscapes and develop an understanding of form and texture that is seen in his work.

This undoubtedly influences how he takes his photographs, by shooting with the final graphic treatment in mind.

George grew up in East Devon and attended Colyton Grammar and The Woodroffe School before going on to study film at Oxford Brookes University, where he encountered his first experience with photography and was inspired by a lecturer to move away from digital and use old film.

After graduating, he spent six years working as an architecture and interiors photographer, primarily based in London and travelling all over Europe.

George's body of works have sold internationally and he has collections framed all over the world, including LA, Sydney, London and New York.

FINN Studio is open everyday unmanned, with George also using it as a studio six days a week offering portrait shoots.

There is also a stylish selection of cards, candles, bags and other gifts to buy, and George is hoping to make even more use of the space by opening it up for yoga classes, recitals and other community events.

He is also planning to host an open exhibition over the weekend of September 17 to 19.

For more details and updates on upcoming event, visit the website www.finn-studio.com or search Finn Studio on Facebook and Instagram.