Obscura Legacies aims to bring Camera Obscuras to life, supporting the publication of Derek Swindley’s inspiring creative journey.
Derek Swindley was a self-taught expert in optics and photography, combining deep technical knowledge with remarkable mechanical ingenuity. In the 1980s, he built what is believed to be the UK’s first mobile Camera Obscura, housed in a caravan. Derek’s Caravan Camera Obscura delighted audiences across Devon and Cornwall, including appearances such as A Victorian Weekend at Port Eliot Estate in August 1984. His generosity and expertise went on to support many other mobile Camera Obscura projects. Derek loaned or donated lenses that helped bring new cameras into existence, inspiring artists and organisations for decades. Although Derek passed away in 2012, he left behind a rich archive of material from his creative life. Obscura Legacies aims to honour Derek’s work by documenting his projects and continuing his passion for sharing knowledge - ensuring Camera Obscuras remain accessible, understood, and celebrated.
Obscura Legacies Launch Exhibition
Join Lesley Flowers (Derek's daughter) and Matthew Pontin (Creative Director, Fotonow and creator of Camper Obscura) for a pop up show and zine launch of the Obscura Legacies project and the publication of the first zine, Derek Swindley and his Camera Obscuras, by Fotonow CIC.
Where and When
Preview: Friday 27 February 2026, 5-7pm
Exhibition: Saturday 28 February 2026, 10-4pm
Venue: Fotonow CIC, 107 Cornwall Street, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 1PA
A series of publications is planned as part of the project. Future publications will explore the Camera Obscuras Derek inspired and supported, how they were built, and the artistic, social, and community projects they have generated over the past 20 years.