Free Ipswich exhibition at Christchurch Mansion will showcase work of photographer John Ferguson, who used to work for the the Daily Mirror

A multi-award-winning black press, documentary and lifestyle photographer is set to open a free exhibition in a Suffolk town later this month.

John Ferguson who moved to Ipswich from London, became the UK’s first black staff photographer on a national newspaper in the 1990s.

During his career he has worked for the Daily Mirror and photographed famous faces including, David Bowie, Oasis, the Spice Girls and Pink.

Now he hopes his exhibition An Eye For Life: Photography by John Ferguson at the historic Christchurch Mansion in Ipswich, will encourage others to give photography a try.

The exhibition will feature the town’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 explore the concept of home for people from the African-Caribbean community, who were born in the county, or who have made Suffolk their home.

John said: “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.”

Kate Price, assistant director of communities at Ipswich Borough Council, said: "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.

An Eye For Life: Photography by John Ferguson will be on display at Christchurch Mansion's Wolsey Art Gallery from Saturday, June 29, 2024 to Saturday, April 27, 2025.

The exhibition has been funded by Arts Council England through Colchester and Ipswich Museum Service’s National Portfolio Organisation funding.

It has been sponsored by Kersey's Solicitors.