Since 2008, Shirlaine Forrest has worked with Community Arts North West as our go-to photographer to photograph our projects. Her first project was to photograph the large-scale outdoor Exodus Festival in Manchester’s Cathedral Gardens.
Shirlaine’s photography features in CAN’s Voices of the City exhibition, which launches at Manchester Central Library’s Oculus space on Wednesday 8 April and runs until Wednesday 30 April.
We sat down with Shirlaine to learn more about her work as a freelance music photographer and her work with CAN over the years.
You photograph big-name singers, musicians and bands. Who have you photographed and what are your highlights?
“Photographing Taylor Swift’s Cardiff show was a highlight; it was incredible and easily the best live show I’ve ever seen. Taylor had a very friendly female crew, which was brilliant. Also, Lionel Ritchie was great to photograph, he actually had a puppy room backstage so the crew could recharge ahead of the show! I’m fortunate to work with some of the world’s biggest artists on a regular basis, something I don’t take for granted.”
And you work with CAN, which is very different to your music photography. What are some of your CAN highlights?
“Every single CAN shoot is a highlight; it’s my favourite organisation to photograph. Over the years, I’ve learned so much from the facilitators and participants; their bravery, camaraderie, artistry and collective humour are wonderful to witness. It’s a huge honour.”
Tell us about working as the photographer on Voices of the City? What was special about it?
“Having a photography-led project was a wonderful opportunity to get to know each person individually; that moment of connection is so important and magical. Being trusted to collaborate with each person and to show their personality is huge; I can’t thank them enough. It’s wonderful to see their early, slightly unsure shots compared to their final images full of confidence and a sense of self. It’s been great to work with the participants – Aida, Celine, Nour and Omnya – to curate the exhibition.”
Are you excited about your work being exhibited at Manchester Central Library?
“Libraries are so important; they’re much-needed calm spaces. Manchester Central Library is a stunning building; it’s a real landmark in the city, and I’ve shot there many times. And we have this important exhibition in the heart of Manchester, such a diverse and welcoming city; it’s perfect, I’m so excited to be there.”
Why is creativity so important for young people?
“Creativity is vital for everyone; it’s so important to express how you feel, even if it’s for your eyes only. Some thoughts and emotions can be difficult to express through words. Creativity equals ‘people power’, and it’s an opportunity for communities to narrate, vent, grow, protest, and love. Creativity crosses language, borders, class and cultures. Art is for everyone.”
Do you have any tips for young people interested in pursuing photography as a career?
“Switch your camera to manual mode, and you’ll learn quickly what went wrong and how to fix it. Take photographs in tricky situations and learn from your mistakes. Try to develop your own personal style and believe in your aesthetic. There are so many interesting routes to take with photography; it’s important to consider what makes you happy and to follow that direction. Above all, be kind, interested and open to others.”
Thanks, Shirlaine!
Photo: Shirlaine with the band Elbow.
