A new free exhibition 'An Eye For Life: Photography by John Ferguson’ which celebrates portraiture, identity, and home will open this June at Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich.
John Ferguson is an internationally established documentary, lifestyle, and portrait photographer who lives in Ipswich. His images tell stories which are approachable and intimate.
This will be the first exhibition to showcase John's photography in Suffolk and explore his past career, with highlights including his work as a senior photographer for a leading national newspaper.
Presenting portrait projects that John has worked on over the years, the exhibition will feature Ipswich's newly acquired Black Suffolk photographic portraits, funded by The Art Fund and The Friends of the Ipswich Museums. The series of 20 photographic portraits creatively explores the concept of home for a diversity of people from the African-Caribbean community who were born in the county or who have made Suffolk their home.
The exhibition also covers his time working with celebrities, including Oasis, The Spice Girls, The Osbournes, Dolly Parton, Tom Jones, David Bowie, and many more. It also looks at John's favourite personal photo projects, from the Forgotten African American Cowboys to street photography, Ipswich Banger Racers, and his work with the Albino and Blind Associations.
Ipswich's historic portrait collection will also be highlighted in the Mansion, covering 500 years of art. A celebration of Suffolk faces will show how humans have shaped their identity through portraiture for hundreds of years.
Funded by Arts Council England through Colchester and Ipswich Museum Service’s National Portfolio Organisation funding, the exhibition has also been sponsored by Kersey's Solicitors LLP.
Kate Price, Assistant Director of Communities at Ipswich Borough Council, says:
"We're excited to showcase John Ferguson's work at Christchurch Mansion. John defines the phrase home-grown talent, and his vibrant and compelling photographs wonderfully depict the people who call Suffolk home.
"We hope lots of people take the opportunity to see this fantastic free exhibition."
John Ferguson adds:
“To have my work displayed in my newly adopted home of Ipswich is a tremendous honour for me.
"If I can inspire just one person to pick up a camera and explore their world, then this would bring a massive smile to my face.”
