Media Release
Powerhouse Announces Major Photography Commissions
Powerhouse is excited to announce Expressions of Interest are now open for two major photography commission opportunities, presenting emerging and established photographers with support to develop major works for inclusion in the foundational programs of Powerhouse Parramatta.
As part of the museum’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Australian photographic practice, Powerhouse invites photographers to submit Expressions of Interest for the First Nations Right of Reply Photography Commission and the Powerhouse Photography Architectural Commission, which were announced on Friday night, 6 December at the Powerhouse Photofields 2024 launch.
Both commissions are part of Powerhouse Photography, an industry-led initiative dedicated to amplifying Australian photography and lens-based practice, made possible through support from the Australian Centre of Photography.
The First Nations Right of Reply Commission invites Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander photographers to respond to and engage with the Powerhouse Collection. This major commission aims to critically explore, challenge and reframe narratives surrounding applied arts and sciences through the lens of First Nations perspectives. Developed in collaboration with both the Powerhouse’s First Nations and photography teams, the project will focus on exploring the intersection of culture, history and contemporary photography while working with one of Australia’s most significant collections.
The Powerhouse Photography Architectural Commission aims to develop new perspectives on Australian architecture and the built environment and seeks applications from photographers with experience producing architectural photographs and/or lens-based architectural projects with a focus on construction, urban development, housing, infrastructure and sustainability.
For both paid commission opportunities, applicants must demonstrate they can undertake a major commission from concept to delivery. Shortlisted applicants will be given a detailed project briefing and are required to develop a detailed scope of work in collaboration with Powerhouse. Once an assessment is complete and the scope is agreed, the successful candidate will be awarded a contract for the project’s delivery.
Head of Collections First Nations Nathan mudyi Sentance said, ‘Powerhouse is the custodian of the world’s most extensive and sought-after photography collection of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, yet it holds very few photographs created by or for these communities. Now is the time for Powerhouse to provide the space for First Nations photographers to reshape how their communities’ stories are told by applying a critical lens to the collection.’
Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah said, ‘Thanks to the generosity of the Australian Centre for Photography we can offer programs such as these which reflect our commitment to supporting the diversity of Australian photographic practice. Both initiatives offer unique opportunities to contribute to the cultural and architectural conversations that are shaping our contemporary culture.’
Powerhouse Head of Program and Co-Chair of the Powerhouse Photography Advisory Group Sarah Rees said, ‘These initiatives provide an exciting opportunity for photographers to collaborate with Powerhouse on a major new commission. Through the Powerhouse Photography program, we’re proud to continue the legacy of the Australian Centre for Photography by offering ongoing opportunities for photographers to expand their practice.’
Expressions of interest for both opportunities are open until 5pm, Friday 17 January 2025. For more information visit powerhouse.com.au/opportunity
First Nations Right of Reply Photography Commission visit: https://ph.au/4ik93bx
Powerhouse Photography Architectural Commission visit: https://ph.au/4eYFUQc
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About Powerhouse
Powerhouse sits at the intersection of arts, design, science and technology and plays a critical role in engaging communities with contemporary ideas and issues. We are undertaking a landmark $1.2 billion infrastructure renewal program, spearheaded by the creation of the new museum, Powerhouse Parramatta; expanded research and public facilities at Powerhouse Castle Hill; the renewal of the iconic Powerhouse Ultimo; and the ongoing operation of Sydney Observatory. The museum is custodian to over half a million objects of national and international significance and is considered one of the finest and most diverse collections in Australia. We are also undertaking an expansive digitisation project that will provide new levels of access to the Powerhouse Collection.
About Powerhouse Photography
Powerhouse Photography is an annual program dedicated to amplifying Australian photography and lens-based practice through programs, commissions, acquisitions, publications and learning. Powerhouse Photography is supported by funds generously donated by the Australian Centre for Photography.