Industrial Landscapes – Swansea University Archives Blog

We recently re-discovered a tweet where we shared this lovely photo of pit ponies from Aberaman Colliery, enjoying some open air and freedom during miners fortnight, 1961.

Aberaman Colliery: photographs of pit ponies during miners fortnight holiday, 1961. Photographer: Ron Bevan (Ref. SWCC/PHO/COL/1)

It prompted this interesting reply from Dr Hilary Orange, which got us thinking…..

Reminiscent of a long standing visual motif in the Ruhrgebiet of nature in the foreground and industry in the background, seen in painting/photography since at least the early 20thC. The contrast is appealing.
Originally tweeted by Dr Hilary Orange (@HilaryOrange) on April 10, 2019.

Many striking images in the South Wales Coalfield Collection feature views of collieries and landscape scenery.

This juxtaposition of industrial buildings or machinery and their natural backdrop raises questions about the relationship between nature and industry, and how this has developed and been viewed over time. Thoughts might include –

Development of industry from natural resources – Wales’ rich mineral resources led to the development of its coal and metallurgical industries
Nature and industry working in harmony – natural landscape seen as an important asset and industry viewed as creating opportunities and excitement, neither dominating the other
Industry at odds with nature – destroying natural resources, natural or industrial disasters, pollution etc.
Regeneration of post-industrial areas – many projects (e.g. Coalfields Re-Generation Trust) now include aims to improve the natural environment such walking trails, planting, removing dereliction and improving pollution.