An Interview with film-maker Luke Baker

“A Portrait is akin to a small crack in the window, a moment in time in a working artist’s life. We follow Pearl, an illustrator from Lewes, from her artistic sanctuary to crossing the rolling hills of the South Downs, a place of boundless inspiration”

In May 2023, Luke Baker was commissioned to create a film as part of the Portrait of the South Downs project. The film followed Sussex-based artist Pearl Bates as she wanders across the South Down.

Read the interview below to find out more about the story behing the film

Had you visited the South Downs National Park prior to working on this project and tell us a bit about your experiences?

This project signalled my first time in the South Downs. I live and work in London which is often overlooked for its green spaces but opportunities to immerse myself in the true outdoors are infrequent.

I was born and raised in Essex which has its own impressive scenic landscapes so there was a degree of familiarity but it’s easy to forget that we have such things on our doorstep.

I find a strange but satisfying sense of melancholy in places like this. There is something about being able to see afar, being rocked by the wind at the top of the hill, with no street signs or landmarks to adhere to.  It’s a feeling of contentment and awe, not dissimilar to looking up at the stars at night. A true moment of stillness.

What about Pearl’s story and connection to the landscape drew you in?

 I gravitate towards artists and creatives who I find make excellent subjects for documentary portrait work. While we don’t delve into Pearl’s story or her work with conventional depth, it’s clear she embodies that artistic nature. There is a delicateness and thoughtfulness and we see it in the eyes and the way she carries herself. It is the art of just being, no pretence – it just is.

Can you tell us a bit about the filming day and what it included?

 I met Pearl at her studio first thing. As an admirer of contrasting elements and the interplay of opposites, I was drawn to the inherent contradiction between the intimate chaos of an illustrator’s creative sanctuary and the vast expanse of the surrounding landscape. I assured Pearl that there was no expectation for her to perform or conform to any preconceived notions. I simply encouraged her to be herself and carry on with her customary artistic endeavours. I am the proverbial fly on the wall, a leaf in the wind.

After I left Pearl, I went on my own exploration, allowing my camera to capture the unfolding scenes without restraint. Despite the glorious sunshine, the wind asserted its ferocity and somewhat dictated the course of my journey.

Could you provide us with a short summary of the film? How do you hope people will respond to it?

 A Portrait is akin to a small crack in the window, a moment in time in a working artist’s life. We follow Pearl, an illustrator from Lewes, from her artistic sanctuary to crossing the rolling hills of the South Downs, a place of boundless inspiration.

Have a look at Pearl’s beautiful illustrations below