Art / analogue photography
Popular darkroom and community photographic studio moves to Bedminster
Following a fundraising campaign which was well-supported by the analogue photography community in Bristol and beyond, Negative Thinking CIC has moved to new, larger premises in Bedminster.
The well-loved community darkroom and photographic studio was formerly situated in a characterful but undeniably cold upstairs space tucked into a hidden corner of Totterdown.
It was founded in 2022 by seasoned photographer Tim Pearse, who has exhibited in esteemed galleries in London, Paris and New York. As a proponent of numerous alternative and historic photographic and printmaking processes, Tim is passionate about keeping these skills alive and inspiring budding local photographers to come down to the studio and discover myriad ways to develop their creativity. So as well as hiring the darkroom and studio space, local analogue photography enthusiasts can access Negative Thinking for specialist workshops, one-to-one teaching, short courses and masterclasses as well as photography clubs and one-off events.
is needed now More than ever
Such was the popularity of the heritage techniques demonstrated by Pearse and other users of the equipment, it didn’t take long for a community to begin amassing around the studio; a place with a friendly, open-door policy in which the kettle is always on, and novices and seasoned photographers alike can come together and share their practice. However, it also quickly became apparent that the premises was no longer fit for purpose, in both space, scope and practicality.
New event and gallery space at the new home for Negative Thinking CIC at Willway Yard, just off Bedminster Parade
Joining the team in 2023, Emily Pearse is the studio director and community manager at Negative Thinking, and has been instrumental in spearheading the successful fundraising campaign that has underpinned the expansion.
The new space opened its doors on September 19 with a celebration party, a tour of the new facilities, and the announcement of a fundraising auction featuring original prints from some renowned UK contemporary photographers including Jem Southam, Garry Fabian-Millar, and Martin Parr.
Although the project has been successful, the quest to secure new premises was not without significant bumps in the road. One year on from first welcoming Bristol24/7 into their space, Emily shared her reflections on the next chapter for the thriving community she has helped to foster.
What does it feel like to finally have a new home?
“It feels like a relief! It has been a long year in limbo holding on to hope, and we are proud of ourselves for overcoming various challenges which in itself has steeled us to fully understand what we want to offer. We have learnt a lot, and now we can finally focus on the business and not the build! It feels magical. To be on the other side of this difficult chapter is exciting and we can’t wait to welcome people into our new home.”
Under the red light in one of the three new darkrooms at Negative Thinking HQ
How much has the NT community worked together in the run-up to reopening?
“They have been amazingly supportive and patient. We are so thankful to them for giving their time when and where they could to help us complete this project. Friends old and new came through to help us with the finishing touches, and moreover to bring energy into the space whilst we were on our last legs. We feel incredibly lucky that we have met such kind and generous people who love being a part of Negative Thinking.”
What are your plans for the rest of the year?
“We are looking forward to getting back to business as usual as we settle into our new home in Willway Yard. We have a brilliant workshop programme coming up for people to enjoy, from beginners’ courses to advanced darkroom techniques and alternative processes. We have also organised a print auction fundraiser to raise money for brand new equipment, and we’re very thankful to all the incredible photographers who have generously donated their work.”
Studio lights
Looking further ahead, what are your hopes for what the new, expanded premises might offer to analogue photographers?
“We want Negative Thinking to reach more people, and we are on a mission to democratise the darkroom and open it up for people to explore their creativity. This year, we are going to be promoting the wonderful work that gets made here and hosting events to share stories and art. We will be hosting talks and our ever-popular Crit Clubs, as well as exhibitions and more unique and experimental workshops. We are also planning to offer artist residencies for South West-based photographers and artists. We want darkroom skills to make their way out of the periphery and back into the mainstream.
“NTHQ is the same welcoming space as it always was, but now with easier access and more space to come together, and to create. We have a brand-new photography studio to hire as well as a bright gallery space, and the largest and best equipped public darkrooms in the region. We will always keep our prices as low as we can to help break down financial barriers to access to analogue photography.”
For those who are completely new to it, can you sum up what you love about sharing these historic photography techniques?
“The darkroom acts as a conduit to reimagine what it means to make a photograph. Through the connection of the hand, the heart and the eye of the photographer, we can create images that speak deeply and reflect the skill that we practice. Spending time in the darkroom, whether on your own or in community, will help you better understand how to be intentional with your photography, and in turn, will improve every aspect of your picture making.
“We want to encourage experimentation and discovery, learning from each other all the time. Even if you don’t call yourself a photographer, we believe that everyone has a relationship with photography; giving everyone a voice when words are difficult.”
Artwork: Negative Thinking
Negative Thinking CIC is now based at Willway Yard, Bedminster. Find out more about upcoming workshops and events at www.negative-thinking.co.uk or follow @negative_thinking_bristol. The print auction will end on November 3.
All photos: Negative Thinking CIC
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