Pove the Great is an intimate story and far more personal than the books that were previously published by the photographer. Focused once again in and around Bridgend in Wales, this publication and project centres on a single individual called Steve Povey. Described as a troubled soul, the book reveals Steve’s affiliation with the woods, and how they represent a place of “temporary escape from the modern world”.

We talked to Dan Wood about his work and about the new book, that has already nearly sold out.

What interests you most in photography? What do you focus on?

My main interest is storytelling and real life. I’ve always been passionate about telling stories since a young age, and I thrive on being temporarily invited into people’s lives and do my very best not to exploit the privilege. I always make sure that I involve the people in the whole process, and then I pay them for their time and efforts with books and prints, which I think is important. I don’t have much money but to be able to give something back to people who have contributed and helped a project move forward is essential.

Could you tell me more about the genesis of the new series?

As someone who works primarily on long term, documentary projects that usually take years to finish, I recently felt like I needed a break from a project I was working on, and wanted to work on something shorter and more specifically about an individual: a character study. Then I crossed paths with Steve one day and that was the catalyst!