A photography graduate has gone global after his transgender-based work was featured in a Miami exhibition.

Romford Recorder: Davy's photographs are being ehibited in MiamiDavy's photographs are being ehibited in Miami (Image: Archant)

Davy Priestly, of Harold Hill, only completed his course at Barking and Dagenham college in 2013 but last year was approached by the organisers of Art Takes Miami, who caught wind of his work after he visited the city.

Romford Recorder: Davy's work is based on transgender and journeys of self-discoveryDavy's work is based on transgender and journeys of self-discovery (Image: Archant)

Davy, 54, is completely deaf, and photography has always been a passion of his. As well as transgender shots, his work focuses on self-discovery and features a mix of colour, black and white and Polaroid shots.

And last month he was able to see his work on the walls of Scope Art Miami, on Miami Beach.

“I was really happy to have my work chosen for the Miami exhibitions,” he said. “It’s given me a brilliant platform to hopefully promote my work further.”

“With photography I am able to bring pictures to life,” he explained. “I use my imagination, inner drive and desire to produce a good photo. Pictures are storage devices of lifetime experiences. They hold memories of wonderful or sad times and they awaken emotions. I never want to lose my passion for photography.”

Davy’s tutors are not surprised his work has become popular.

David Bennett, programme leader for the BA (Hons) photography degree, said: “Davy was an exceptional student, full of passion and commitment to his discipline. Photography for him doesn’t switch off at 5pm and that is the ethos and philosophy of our undergraduate programme. He was a joy to teach and we are delighted that he has been able to participate in an international art fair.”

Since finishing his degree, Davy has sold prints and had his work shown at the Aubin Gallery and the Great Western Studios in London.