In Upstream, Wingfield enters an imaginary conversation with the American poet Mary Oliver, whose collection of essays Upstream is the series' main source of inspiration. In the opening chapter, Oliver reminisces about her childhood — how most mornings, instead of going to school, she would feel a strong pull and head in the opposite direction, towards the woods.
Following in Oliver's footsteps, Upstream offers a similar experience of joyful truancy. It is an invitation to leave behind the weight of daily life and walk upstream, whilst most of those around us drift with the current.
Guided through the undergrowth into the shadowy world of the water's edge, we are encouraged to lose our sense of direction and time, to linger in unexpected places that hold a hidden presence. They invite a renewed sense of curiosity and wonder.
Wingfield's camera captures the sun's rays as they embroider the darkness of unforeseen enclaves. Nature is illuminated by the undulating choreography of light — the great priestess of landscapes. Dust and algae decorate a pool like iridescent jewels whilst patterned reflections form and dissolve as each ripple touches the surface of a stream. It is a radiant dialogue between water and light.
Should we finally retrace our steps downstream, Upstream is an invitation to carry this enriched memory with us.
"In difficult times you should always carry something beautiful in your mind."
Blaise Pascal