Photographer John Ferguson honoured by Ipswich exhibition

A retrospective of a photographer’s lifetime of work capturing images of celebrities and projects exploring communities across the world is to go on display.

John Ferguson, who lives in Ipswich, said he was “honoured” to have work covering about 40 years of his career open to to the public in his An Eye for Life exhibition at Christchurch Mansion in the town.

Among the works on display are a series of photographs which explored the meaning of home for people from the black British community living in Suffolk.

“Some of these images have some great stories behind them,” he said.

Mr Ferguson, who used to work in London’s Fleet Street, said: “Suffolk and Ipswich especially is my new adopted home.

“To be recognised by Ipswich Museum and the people of Ipswich, who decided to put this exhibition on… I feel really honoured.

“I hope to do more of these projects and campaigns in Suffolk as well.”

Formerly a photographer for a national newspaper, Mr Ferguson said a project focusing on Suffolk was the catalyst for the exhibition.

He said: “One of [my] projects was on the theme of home, which delved into the Afro-Caribbean population and how they felt about living in a rural Suffolk community.

“I got a diverse range of ideas and stories, it was enlightening.

“Ipswich museum loved it and my exhibition came about from there I think.”

The exhibition also covers his time working with celebrities, including Oasis, The Spice Girls, and David Bowie.

It also includes Mr Ferguson’s favourite personal photo projects.

“Some of these images have some great stories behind them,” he said.

Kate Price, assistant director of communities at Ipswich Borough Council, said: “John defines the phrase homegrown talent and his vibrant and compelling photographs wonderfully depict the people who call Suffolk home.”

The exhibition opens 29 June at Christchurch Mansion and runs until 27 April.