Today, we launched The Royal Parks of London – A Journey through the Parks, a captivating new photographic book celebrating a year in the life of London’s most famous green spaces.
Taken over the course of a year by Russian-born photographer Sasha Gusov, there are more than 250 stunning original photographs illustrating a journey through the parks. With his camera, Gusov explored 5,000 acres from Richmond and Bushy Park in the west to Greenwich in the east. He not only captures the changing seasons, but also creates a warm, humorous and extremely personal snapshot of the different people he met along his journey.
Sasha Gusov comments: “Each photograph is a foil for the image on the opposite page - and the more you compare the detail, the more reasons I hope you will find to smile and keep turning the pages!”
The portfolio features the beautiful rolling landscapes and wildlife found across London, at the same time as showing how millions of visitors enjoy their local Royal Park, each in their own way.
In his foreword to the book, Boris Johnson, Mayor of London, comments: “At the same time as bearing the stamp of their 500-year history, The Royal Parks offer a fascinating reflection of the modern world bustling outside their railings. They welcome more than 36 million visitors a year, embrace an entire spectrum of ages, faith and political persuasions, feature everything from contemporary art and rock to international sport like the 2012 Olympics. And as if that weren’t enough, they also witness every emotion from love and joy, to curiosity and quiet contemplation.”
Sara Lom, chief executive of the Royal Parks Foundation, says: “Gusov’s witty book shows how we all relate to the Royal Parks in our own individual way. Whether we run through them; cycle around them; take our dog for a walk; skate with friends; or feed the ducks on a lunch break or weekend, the parks are a great source of humour and happiness in our capital city.
“Gusov has created something that will capture the hearts of park lovers. Recent government spending cuts are putting pressure on The Royal Parks to make ends meet and through sales of this book we will raise vital funds to protect and maintain London’s green space for future generations to enjoy.”
The hardback publication (340mm x 230mm) will retail for £50 and all proceeds will go directly towards the vital work of the Royal Parks Foundation and help fund wildlife conservation, education and restoration projects across the eight Royal Parks. Publication has been made possible by a generous gift from Boris Berezovsky.
Order your book today from our shop.
20 July 2011