Max Dupain (Australia, 1911–1992) and Ansel Adams (USA, 1902–1984) shaped the visual identity of their respective nations through the lens of modernist photography. Though working on opposite sides of the Pacific, they shared a profound commitment to formal clarity, tonal precision, and the expressive potential of light.
This exhibition brings Dupain’s iconic modernist studies of Australia’s built environments together with Adams’ majestic portrayals of the American wilderness in a compelling and illuminating pairing. These images are shown alongside works by their peers, including portraits and still lifes, to contextualise their place the development of twentieth-century photography.
Max Dupain and Ansel Adams: In search of perfection is a National Gallery Touring Exhibition presented as part of the Bowness Family Foundation Photography Touring Program. Curator: Anne O'Hehir, Curator, Photography.
Image: Max Dupain, NSW Government Architect (architect), Stairwell Lindfield College, 1978, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, gift of the photographer 1991, © The Estate of Max Dupain.
Bayside Gallery
Corner Wilson and Carpenter St
Brighton VIC 3186
T: 03 9261 7111
E: gallery@bayside.vic.gov.au
W: bayside.vic.gov.au/gallery
Opening Hours
Wednesday – Friday: 11am - 5pm
Saturday & Sunday: 1pm - 5pm
Closed all Victorian public holidays and between exhibitions.
Entry is Free
The Public Galleries Association of Victoria (PGAV) acknowledges the Wurundjeri Woi-Wurrung people of the Kulin Nation as the Traditional Owners of the lands where our office is located, and all Traditional Owners of country throughout Victoria and Australia. We recognise Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples enduring traditions and continuing creative cultures. We pay our respect to Elders past, present and emerging.
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