Artist Bio
Pace Freeman began his photographic career capturing the dynamic nightlife of Glasgow in the mid-2000s. As revellers spilled from the clubs onto the streets, his fascination with Glasgow's nightlife transitioned seamlessly into street photography, capturing fleeting moments amid the urban chaos.
Driven by an insatiable curiosity for human narratives, Pace's adventures took him to the heart of the Amazon. Here, he immersed himself in the mystical world of shamanic practices and Ayahuasca rituals, capturing the profound spirituality of these ancient traditions. This transformative experience was a catalyst for his empathetic approach to photography, revealing the deep connections between people and their environments.
Following his Amazonian journey, Pace moved to Phnom Penh, delving into the poignant stories of Khmer Rouge survivors. His time in Cambodia was marked by a deep respect for the resilience of the human spirit, further enriching his photographic voice.
However, despite his dedication, Pace became increasingly disillusioned with the impact of his work and its ability to effect change. This disillusionment led him to a dramatic decision: he put down his camera and destroyed all of his previous work, feeling a profound sense of frustration and doubt about the power of photography to make a difference.
After Phnom Penh, Pace moved to Lisbon, Portugal. Here, with renewed determination, he returned to photography, documenting the lives of the homeless and those affected by austerity measures.
It was in Lisbon that he also started to document the lives of artists, dancers, and actors, marking a significant shift in his work. Capturing the vibrant and often challenging aspects of their lives,
In 2014, Pace embraced a new challenge by relocating to Shanghai. Here, he embarked on his first long-term documentary project, "Faces of Shanghai." Over four and a half years, he chronicled the city's rapid transformation, humanising the narrative of China's meteoric growth. This project not only documented Shanghai's evolving landscape but also reflected Pace's own evolving relationship with photography.
In 2024, Pace moved to Amsterdam, inspired by the city's rich history and cultural diversity. His latest long-term project, "Amsterdam Echoes," aims to capture the ever-changing face of the city, its vibrant inhabitants, and his personal journey within this dynamic environment.