Harry Kerr (1960–2022), born in the West of Scotland, was a visionary photographer whose career began at the Glasgow School of Art, where he specialised in photography initially in the Graphics Department in the Design School and then in the School of Fine Art where he studies Fine Art Photography. His commitment to photography as a fine art medium was strengthened by the arrival of influential mentor Thomas Joshua Cooper, whose forward-thinking approach shaped Harry’s early artistic direction.
Harry’s talent was recognised quickly. He became the first year-long artist-in-residence at Summerlee Heritage Trust, later serving as its Design & Interpretation Officer. He was also the inaugural recipient of Scotland’s much-missed lens-based media award, the Richard Hough Bursary, supporting his celebrated project Sense & Science, exhibited widely throughout Scotland and England. Harry went on to instruct in the Fine Art Photography Department at the prestigious Glasgow School of Art and served on the Board of Street Level Photoworks. After moving to Donegal over twenty years ago, Harry continued to pursue both commercial and personal creative work, while fostering a thriving photographic community around him.
Throughout his life, Harry inspired others with his passion for photographic craft, creativity and experimentation. He was a generous teacher and collaborator, always eager to support emerging photographers and help them realise their potential.
The Harry Kerr Bursary continues that spirit. Offering significant financial and practical support, it seeks out photographic artists who demonstrate originality, ambition, and commitment. The bursary provides a vital platform for producing new work and gaining visibility, ensuring Harry’s legacy of encouragement and artistic excellence lives on.
