Scottish photographer explores independence via battle re-enactment

Voters in Scotland are today deciding whether to swap 300 years of union with England, Wales and Northern Ireland for the nationalist dream of an independent country. The referendum is being held exactly 700 years after the Battle of Bannockburn, where Robert The Bruce defeated the English army of Edward II and every year a re-enactment is held to bring this major historical landmark back to life.

Edinburgh-based photographer Robert Ormerod realised this would be the perfect way to investigate the independence issue and created this excellent series of photographs at the recent recreation of the famous battle. Robert is savvy enough to avoid heavy-handed metaphor (sentimental saltires and the like) and instead focuses on the odd-pastimed volunteers who give up their time to make these events possible, and the crowds who come along to watch – some of the shots of drizzle-flecked spectators are reminiscent of Martin Parr’s work.

Of course there are comparisons we can draw and visual symbols we can seize on, but Robert cannily leaves that up to us. It’s also worth saying whichever way Scotland votes, the Battle of Bannockburn re-enactment may never be quite the same again, taking on a different significance depending on the outcome of today’s referendum.