Nils Aksnes is a designer, maker and photographic artist living and working on the west coast of Argyll, Scotland. This is where he grew up, and where he formed strong connections to coastal and woodland landscapes, which continue to influence his creative work. With these connections came a keen awareness of environmental issues, in particular marine plastic pollution.
Exploring environmental change
Nils uses analogue pinhole cameras as a tool for close study of the coastal landscape.
Although they are very simple devices, pinhole cameras are capable of creating beautifully complex images.
‘I play with this simplicity and combine movement, masks and multiple exposures to construct multi-layered images.’ Nils Aksnes has found ways to use these media to explore environmental change, also drawing on found objects and natural materials.
Low-environmental impact cameras
‘I complement my photographic practice through designing and making cameras to explore new ideas or techniques. Minimising environmental impact through both design decisions and material selection is central to my work. I produce and sell 3D printed, modular and low environmental impact cameras under the name Finite Industries.’
Make+Do Studio
After studying and working in Glasgow, Nils returned to live in Argyll in 2018. He set up a studio and workshop in mid-Argyll between temperate rainforest and rugged coast. Separate from photography and camera design he works together with his partner as Make+Do Studio. They focus on co-design and facilitation, and working with rural communities and environmental organisations.
‘My photographic work has been exhibited across the UK and in Spain, Germany and the USA.
I am excited and enthusiastic about opportunities to learn from the knowledge, skills and ways of working of others within an interdisciplinary community.’
