At just 26, Charlie Calder-Potts became the youngest female war artist commissioned by the British Army, documenting life in Afghanistan during a turbulent period. Her journey began with a desire to explore the region, fueled by a fascination with its complex history and contemporary struggles. In March 2013, she embarked on a mission to capture the human experience amid conflict, reaching out to various Army regiments until the 9th/12th Royal Lancers invited her to join their tour.
From Adventure to Artistry
Calder-Potts, who had previously established herself as an artist in London, sought to gain firsthand experience of war by embedding herself with British troops. She viewed this role as an opportunity to document the lives of those affected by conflict through various artistic mediums. “I thought becoming a war artist would provide insight,” she reflected, acknowledging her relative ignorance and youthful bravery at the time.
After undergoing a training camp in Dorset, she joined the British Army at Camp Bastion, the main hub for operations in Afghanistan. “It was surreal,” she recalled, noting the camp’s amenities, including a Costa Coffee, juxtaposed against the surrounding barbed wire. As British troops prepared for withdrawal, Calder-Potts encountered a unique blend of tension and monotony among soldiers waiting to return home.
Capturing Conflict and Humanity
During her month-long deployment, Calder-Potts underwent mine detection training and visited various military bases throughout the region, including the mountainous areas around Kabul. She captured striking images, such as one of a man holding helium balloons, which she described as a poignant symbol of hope amidst war. The contrast of normalcy in a wartime environment left a lasting impression on her.
“You’re always reminded that these are normal people trying to live their lives,” she expressed, emphasizing the humanity she witnessed amid chaos.
Utilizing salvaged materials from military vehicles, she combined photography with oil painting, creating a unique narrative around the experiences of those involved in the conflict. Calder-Potts vividly recalled the physical challenges she faced, including the oppressive heat and the weight of her body armor, which highlighted the stark realities of life in a combat zone.
Despite being the only woman among hundreds of men at one base, she felt supported and valued. Many soldiers shared stories about their families, providing a glimpse into their lives beyond the battlefield. “I made some good friends out there,” she said, reflecting on the bonds formed during her time in the war zone.
Confronting Danger and Evolving Perspectives
Calder-Potts’ most harrowing experience occurred just before her departure. Traveling back to Helmand with Army personnel, she sensed an unusual silence among the soldiers. Upon reaching the airport, she learned that Taliban radio had intercepted plans for a suicide bomber targeting their convoy. “That journey was only half an hour but it felt like forever,” she recounted, highlighting the pervasive dangers faced by those in conflict zones.
Although this tour marked her only stint as a war artist, it sparked a career dedicated to documenting conflict. She has since worked in Iraq and Syria and collaborated with organizations like War Child to support children affected by war. Her recent projects include a focus on traditional artistic techniques and the historical context of health, inspired by the 11th-century manuscript, Tacuinum sanitatis.
Now a mother of two, Calder-Potts has shifted her focus from war zones to her local surroundings in Herefordshire, where she forages for natural materials to create pigments. Reflecting on her journey, she noted, “You can never understand a situation until you’re in it,” emphasizing the respect she gained for those serving in conflict areas.
Her work continues to bridge historical techniques with contemporary themes, illustrating the enduring connection between art and humanity. As she moves forward, Calder-Potts remains committed to using her artistic voice to shed light on the realities of those living through conflict.
