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The Norwich based photographer, Martin Figura was
selected as The Forum's first Artist in Residence by The Forum Trust
earlier this year.
This prestigious residency represents three months work, which saw
Martin photographing both users and staff of The Forum for simultaneous
exhibitions at Norwich Arts Centre and The Forum.
His exhibition combines portraitures and digital imaging as well
as performance pieces to examine the concept of The Forum as a library,
learning centre and series of public space.
Flamenco |
The unexpected is revealed through images of alien
robots, masseurs, cartoon rabbits and flamenco dancers, each reflecting
the varied and innovative use of Norwich's newest public building.
The exhibition also features images of hidden areas
including the outside of the vaulted glass roof and sprinkler and
plant room.
Martin Figura on his Residency...
Martin Figura courtesy Toby Litt |
Why did you apply for the Residency at The Forum?
I was approached by Norwich Arts Centre to apply. Originally the
commission was to document the subsequently cancelled Public Art
Project and to make some work in response to that. I have worked
in this capacity a lot, so I suppose that is why I was approached.
I had also done the Millennium Exhibition off Norwich city Council
in 1999.
What do you hope to achieve as the first Artist
in Residence at The Forum?
I hoped to avoid the obvious and to highlight the concept of The
Forum and how it differs from traditional library buildings. To
this end I photographed hidden spaced and introduced interventions
into familiar spaces, such as a flamenco dancer and an alien robot.
How would you describe your work?
I would say my work is quite theatrical and formal in an idiosyncratic
way. I hope it is sometimes surprising, whilst remaining relevant
to the subject matter.
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The driving force behind the project is to show the hidden
and unexpected life of the building.
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