We decided this morning to have an early swim and then visit Wetherspoon's in Southampton for breakfast. As we were eating I noticed two young people come in wearing what appeared to be clerical black clothes, go to the bar and go back out with a lager each.
I was actually hoping to photograph some of Marwell's Zany Zebras in nearby streets, plus take some shots of the pub, The Standing Order, for my Wetherspoon's series but realised I could also have a portrait opportunity.
As we left the pub, we found these young people sitting outside enjoying the sunshine and their drinks. I asked them about their robes and wondered if they were in a drama group. They told us they were at a Pagan Pride Summer Festival at Palmerston Park further up the road.
They are Celtic Wiccans and were each wearing a chain with a pentacle (an amulet used in magical evocation) on a chain.
Kelsey also showed me an American Shaman's bracelet she was wearing, used to create Celtic space. Dan told us that there are many Wiccans in America and around 52,000 in England. Today was the first time they had worn their robes in public. Wiccans are polytheistic and worship nature and old, pre-Christian, Gods.
Dan and Kelsey live on the Isle of Wight where he works as a labourer and she cares full-time for their children aged 3 and 4. They both also practise martial arts, Kelsey in particular is keen on boxing.
They were both really happy to have their photo taken and pleased for me to send them via email.
Very interesting Hazel, lots of info there! I think they were very brave to wear their robes out & about, there are always some wide boys who will take the mick!
Great portrait of these two young people -- there seems to be quite a revival in different cults especially in the summer months when they hold their different festivals . It always intrigues me to see the garments they wear. you were one brave lady to approach and question them -- but then you did have your accomplice hovering in the background ! Well done Hazel
Beryl, thanks, your comment appreciated - a nice surprise to meet these young people today!
A cool little capture of your two Wiccans :)
I got THREE strangers today at the Nottingham Carnival, so my stranger total will be edging towards 50 ! i have yet to process them :)
Well done for 3! It was pure luck that we came across this Pagan Festival.
You have a point, I can see!