Need to Know
Martha Crean
Every issue, we bring you the lowdown on an individual who enriches Bristol with their unique brilliance.
So... Martha Crean. Tell me more!
Convener of creativity. Cultivator of collaboration. Driver of dialogue. As the Public Art Coordinator at the University of Bristol, Martha is an advocate for access to art for all.
Currently working on:
Connecting artists, researchers and local communities to support exciting art commissions for the new Temple Quarter Enterprise Campus.
Most commonly spotted:
At The Little Library at the Barton Hill Micro-campus, a welcoming and inclusive space to help people connect and unwind. As a bookworm and people person, she’s in her element introducing others to the joy of reading through interactive group sessions.
Favourite campus art piece:
Follow Me (2019) by Jeppe Hein. From how it blends beautifully into the stunning landscaping of Royal Fort Gardens, to the joy it brings watching children run through it, it’s a winner.
Can be heard saying things like:
‘Collaborative public art projects can introduce us to new perspectives and take us outside our own echo chambers. They help build diverse communities around a shared creative interest.’
Big fan of:
Artists. Her favourite changes with her mood. She’s inspired by artists who create spaces for social exchange, so if pressed she may mention Sonia Boyce and Jeremy Deller. Then there’s Francis Alÿs. And Leonora Carrington. And Antoni Tàpies…
Specialist skill:
In-depth knowledge of the logistical joys of moving Rembrandts around the world and staging large international exhibitions.
When she’s not working, you can find her:
Crafting with her children. The messier the better. With a background in print-making, Martha’s oeuvre has expanded to include chaotic collage and giant paintings.
Photo: Martha Crean, Public Art Coordinator at the University of Bristol. See the University’s public art here: nonesuch.pub/publicart
Luke Jerram's Palm Temple artwork on the University campus. Photography: Allesandro Gaja.
Luke Jerram's Palm Temple artwork on the University campus. Photography: Allesandro Gaja.
The Voronoi Screen, designed by WilkinsonEyre Architects, is a feature on the outside of the University’s Grade II-listed Fry Building. Photography: George Chan.
The Voronoi Screen, designed by WilkinsonEyre Architects, is a feature on the outside of the University’s Grade II-listed Fry Building. Photography: George Chan.
Inside Hollow, an immersive artwork on campus by Katie Paterson and architects Zeller & Moye. Photography: Max McClure.
Inside Hollow, an immersive artwork on campus by Katie Paterson and architects Zeller & Moye. Photography: Max McClure.
Luke Jerram’s touring artwork Gaia, in the University’s Wills Memorial Building. Photography: Bob Pitchford.
Luke Jerram’s touring artwork Gaia, in the University’s Wills Memorial Building. Photography: Bob Pitchford.
Belonging, a large-scale text-based artwork produced by Fandangoe Kid.
Belonging, a large-scale text-based artwork produced by Fandangoe Kid.