Spiderman shines at degree show
16 June 2008
For as long as he could remember, Southampton Solent University student David Swinbank had been paralysed with terror at the sight of spiders – so it was with some trepidation that he moved a live tarantula into his bedroom as part of his degree project.
But six months of studying his eight legged acquisition turned the 22-year old BA (Hons) Graphic Design student into Solent's biggest spider fan – and now he wouldn't be without hairy Hagrid.
The student, from Bookham, near Leatherhead, produced a book and exhibition mapping his own personal journey as he faced his lifelong fear of spiders – using close-up photography and text inspired by cobwebs.
"It's been an amazing experience – and one that I would never have imagined," said David, who brought the South American pink-toed tarantula, Hagrid, to Southampton Solent University's Graphic Design final-year degree show, running at the Millais Building, East Park Terrace, from Friday June 13 until Thursday, June 19.
"My fear of spiders affected my life. My dad is a framer and, as I couldn't bear to go in spidery sheds, I found it increasingly difficult to help him with his work. If I disturbed a spider I dropped the frames."
And David's fear wasn't confined to dark woodsheds. If there was a spider in a room in the flat he shared with two students, he would get the shakes and refuse to go in.
But as David planned his project for the final year of his graphic design degree|| he decided his passion and fascination with image construction could help him to conquer his arachnophobia.
"Buying a spider of my own seemed a little extreme to a lot of people, but I decided to go for it. When I brought the tarantula home I couldn't even bear to touch her and during her first night in my bedroom I didn't sleep," said David.
David sought advice from the British Tarantula Society and soon his repulsion turned to admiration. He discovered the spider's various habits, and began to get close-up for photo shoots.
David said:
"I was amazed by the construction of Hagrid's webs. They were varied, intricate and beautifully designed and I used them to inspire my text. I realised that spiders are natural designers – and that I have something in common with Hagrid. I am now looking forward to a career in graphic design – with my inspiring spider with me!"
Southampton Solent University lecturer in Design, Nick Long, added:
"David's project was a fascinating insight into fear and the systems humans use to overcome their fears."
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David Swinbank can be contacted on 07533 524980.