Fowler+Sumner are new media artists based in Shrewsbury. We are exploring ideas of fractured and layered narratives, and how creative technology can be used and subverted into recording, generating, telling, retelling and distorting narrative.

Fowler+Sumner are Arron Fowler and Martin Sumner. We are excited by the creative potential of new communications and computing technologies, and in other commissions we are exploring the ways in which the growing prevalence of domestic media tools like mobile phones, mp3 players, digital cameras and public web spaces can be best exploited in the creation of new narrative forms, and the manipulation of traditional narrrative forms.

Fowler+Sumner work primarily with the moving image. Starting from linear works, our interest in usurping and reinterpreting narrative has moved us into interactive installation and performance pieces. This has included VJ work, which employs motion graphics, archive video and live video feeds, mixed live to music. Rhythm and movement are at the core of the art.

Recent practice includes the development of software to control moving image through random processes, maths, external sensors and human interfacing. In April 2007, working in collaboration with two other artists, we were commissioned to develop built sculptural forms housing interactive moving image works (wood, perspex).

Arron Fowler

My artistic practice was cemented in graphic design and has grown to incorporate moving image naturally. My work has a strong graphical legacy and my passion for music influences the pace and feel of my output. My interests have broadened to include a multi disciplinary approach both to my own work and in a community environment.

I am particularly interested in interactivity and spontaneity through performance-related-output, like VJing.

My documentary work has always been structured around artistic principles and I endeavor to break the mold whenever practicable.

My workshop delivery is based around the idea of empowering people to explore that which is available to them. Whether this be low tech or high spec, I try to enable participants to find their inner creativity.

Martin Sumner

Graduated 1998 from University of Portsmouth, 1st Class honours (BA Art Design & Media, specialism Moving Image). My short first film, Star & Crescent Moon, was screened at the National Film Theatre in 1998. Since graduating I have worked in new media practice, in freelance and employed capacities, combined with arts development, participatory practice and curatorial work. Moved to Shropshire in 2003 to continue my arts practice and development work. In my early career in the arts I undertook a research MPhil by practice, extended to an action research PhD on creative inclusion.