Don’t miss the chance to see a new exhibition of digital art and media work on display at The Forum over the next few weeks. Work created by local emerging talent during Signal Films workshops in 2009-10 will be open to the public in The Forum’s exhibition area from 21st May through until the end of June.

Classics vs. Futurists (Friday 21st-Saturday 29th May)
Works on show include a digital art exhibition which showcases 3D imagery, animations and moving image created with visiting practitioner, Alt-w award-winning artist Emma Tolmie (www.emmatolmie.co.uk). Working with Emma the artists mixed low-tech gadgetry and high-tech imagery to create striking pieces which explore the relationship between traditional art and culture and the modern digital era.

The art workshops were run as part of Signal Films “Digital ReGeneration” project, which offers opportunities in using digital technologies creatively.

Local artists who took part commented: “A new world has opened for me” (Gillian Nicholson, Barrow); “I’ve learnt not to be afraid to try, test and experiment – community activities like this are vital” (Claire Fryer, Kendal); “I’ve enjoyed seeing my ideas and visions come to life through digital media,” (Nadine Baxter-Smallwood, Lancaster).

Media Adventures youth campaign (Friday 4th-Tuesday 15th June)
A youth media campaign created by local 13-19 year olds will be making a splash at the Forum in June. The eye-catching work is part of a year-long ‘Routes & Shoots’ project which addresses youth issues in new and engaging ways. The campaign consists of posters, animations and photography created to inspire and encourage local young people to get out and about, enjoy the areas assets such as beautiful landscapes and to try new things. As well as displays at The Forum, you can expect to see their colourful campaign around Barrow from the end of May, featuring in local bus stops, shop fronts and Barrow’s train station amongst other venues!

The group decided on their campaign logo which features the two ‘Bs’ from ‘beyond boundaries’ in the shape of a butterfly after Peter (14 yrs) said the group research trip to Gummers Howe had made him “feel free and like he could do anything”.

The young people have been developing the ideas and brand for the campaign with Kendal based graphic designer and Creative Director of Lavahouse, Steve Scott. He said of the project “working with these young people has been an inspiring experience for me and I have been extremely impressed by the talent and vision that these young people from Barrow have.”

Signal Films ‘Best Of’ (Friday 18th-Tuesday 29th June)
A selection of the best from Signal Films activities this past year will also be on show to celebrate the diverse range of mixed media work which has been created with local talent. There will also be the chance to sign up for Signal Films’ new upcoming programme of free events and training.

To find out more about the exhibitions or to register your interest in any of our projects email info@signalfilms.co.uk or ring 01229 839983. www.signalfilms.co.uk