The Bussey Building is home to a plethora of  artists, creatives and makers. Today, meet Laura Hemming-Lowe: an artist and producer of performance//photography//film//audio-art. Founder of SMASH LAB.
Tell us about your practice: How did you get into it and what do you love about it? What’s the most difficult part of the process?
I studied drama and theatre arts at Goldsmiths 2004-2007. At the time I was passionate about experimental and alternative theatre. I was collaborating with other artists and we would put on art parties and events where we brought together music, dance, theatre and fashion. The experience of being in an art school in South East London was exhilarating and inspiring after growing up in rural Devon. I was surrounded by like-minded creative people for the first time in my life, talking, collaborating and going to events such as the !WOWOW! collective parties in Peckham and Camberwell, Shunt lounge underneath London bridge, all manner of amazing drag nights and gay nights.

This was all crucial to my development as an artist. Inspired by my surroundings I started to create performance art, live art, photography and film. I was always interested in gender politics and the problems surrounding consumerism and the body. I then went onto study an MA in The Body in Performance at Laban to develop my solo practice. My work is quite often research based, driven by popular culture and the need to reflect or question what it means. Although performance is my predominant medium I also paint, make audio art and use film and photography to express how I feel. The most difficult part of my process is getting started and being self motivated. Once the ball is rolling I am off on the creative journey but creating the ball, making it round and believing in it is always a struggle.

How do you feel about being part of the first Peckham-wide open studios as part of Peckham Festival? What is the best part about being part of a wider open studio event with so many other creatives?
I am looking forward to seeing what other artists in my area are up to. It will be exciting to be part of the first Peckham-wide open studio and to learn more about the work that is being made in Peckham.

Where can people find your work online and get in touch?
Visit www.laurahemminglowe.org and [email protected]

Visit Laura at the Bussey Building between 9-11th September.