Rob Sara

Biography

Having spent 20 years working in London’s photographic production industry, Rob shares this professional background in the students photographic practice modules, ensuring that knowledge and skills underpin the learning experience. Prior to his role as a lecturer at University of Cumbria, Rob successfully ran a C-type hand printing service for artists and photographers who specialise in film. Clients included Stephen Gill, Tom Wood, Bertien van Manen, Hannah Starkey. Printwork is held in public and private collections from V&A Museum, Tate Modern, MOMA and the National Media Museum. His MA studies focused on disruptions and discussions surrounding the definitions of the Contemporary Sublime, whilst current practice included projects looking at subjective cultural judgements in portraiture alongside the transmission or restriction of information. By enabling students to explore and innovate with their own solutions to creative situations, as well as always recognizing and supporting individual practice, Rob develops confident, creative and effective photographers. Using diverse strategies involving lectures, demonstrations, seminars and technical workshops, emphasis is placed upon developing the full range of attributes required for successful careers in the image-based visual arts.

Research Interest

The changing role of purpose of analogue processes in a digital image landscape; Contemporary photographic portraiture; Issues surrounding competences and selection of technical process led practice, and their affect upon conceptual development of project work.