Developing Influences: Photography and Power
Series
Where
When
Wednesday, 18 May 2022, 06:30pm - 07:30pm
Event Status
Past event
Helmut Newton is one of the most influential fashion photographers of all time, but the sexual objectification of his subjects has long been criticised. Join a panel of contemporary photographers as they contemplate the divisive eye behind the lens, and discuss how they engage with inspiring – and challenging – influences from the past.
In association with the Jewish Museum of Australia’s landmark new retrospective Helmut Newton: In Focus, photographers Atong Atem, Shannon May Powell and James J. Robinson explore the history of photography as both an art form and a trade, the balance between capturing aesthetic beauty and objectification, and discuss how photography can be used as a tool for empowerment.
In conversation with host Tai Snaith, they share their varied professional and artistic experiences and offer a contemporary lens on the power and politics of photography.
Presented in partnership with Jewish Museum of Australia and PHOTO 2022
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible
Accessible toilets available
You can learn more about the Wheeler Centre’s accessibility policies here. Please notify us of all access requirements when booking online so we can assist you with your visit. If you require further information, please contact reception on 03 9094 7800 or ticketing@wheelercentre.com.
Featuring
Atong Atem is an Ethiopian born, South Sudanese artist and writer living in Narrm/ Melbourne. Atem works primarily with photography and video to explore migrant narratives, postcolonial practices in the African diaspora and the exploration of identity through portraiture. Atem explores concepts of h... Read more
Shannon May Powell is a writer and visual artist based on Wurundjeri Woi Wurrung land in Melbourne. Their work explores gender, sexuality and impermanence with analogue photography, text, video, and movement. They have exhibited at Berlin Feminist Film Festival, New York Art Book Fair, Melbourne Art... Read more
James J. Robinson is an Australian/Filipino artist based in Los Angeles. James’s work is regularly published by the likes of The New York Times and Vogue Australia, working with names like Kylie Jenner, Rihanna and Virgil Abloh, while creative directing and shooting campaigns for Instagram and Mai... Read more
Tai Snaith is an artist, author and broadcaster living and working on unceded Wurundjeri land. Her multi-disciplinary work celebrates the intersection of stories, collections, people and place. She is interested in how objects like books, vessels and other utilitarian items can be powerful tools to ... Read more
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