In conversation with… Will Harrison, Oceanographic Magazine
23 Apr 2026
In the first of our 2026 evening talks, Will Harrison, founder of Oceanographic and Ocean Photographer of the Year, joins award-winning photographer and regular Ocean Photographer of the Year entrant Henley Spiers to explore the story behind one of the ocean world’s most celebrated platforms.
Will reflects on why he founded OPY – and the conviction that a single, extraordinary image can do what data and science sometimes cannot: move people. Together, Will and Henley will discuss the unique role photography plays in ocean conservation, translating the beauty, fragility and urgency of our seas into something visceral and undeniable. They also explore the power of bringing these images off the screen and into the world – and why in-person exhibitions remain one of the most potent tools we have for inspiring audiences to care, to act and to change.
The evening will be compered by Nick Ball, Collections, Galleries and Interpretation at the Historic Dockyard, and there will be a question and answer session following the conversation.
Our talks are free to attend (you do not need a Dockyard admission ticket) but spaces are limited. Tickets must be booked in advance.
| When? | Thursday 23 April |
| Where? | The Mess Deck Restaurant |
| Time? | Arrival from 6.30pm for a 7pm start. The Mess Deck will be open for drinks and snacks prior to the talk. |
| Cost? | Talks are free to attend but we ask that you book in advance. |
About Will Harrison
Will Harrison is the founder and director of Oceanographic Magazine, a publication that focuses on ocean conservation, exploration, and adventure. He has been recognized for his work in creating and launching Oceanographic, a title respected and read around the world. Harrison’s efforts have been instrumental in reaching non-ocean-going audiences and connecting them with the ocean’s role in planetary health. He has also established the Storyteller in Residence position at Oceanographic, a fund for one ocean storyteller to spend a year creating and sharing critical ocean stories. Harrison’s vision is to educate and empower people to celebrate and protect the ocean.
