The current exhibition at ANCA in Dickson presents two photographic artists whose works have direct links back to the 1970s American colour photography. The two artists in the ANCA exhibition are Cathy Laudenbach and Adam Mann.
The theme of this joint exhibition is ‘Longing’ — quoting the few words available online:
Working individually the artists explore the idea of longing as desire to seek, know and reveal more. Laudenbach’s work centres on known historical places in the Canberra area while Mann is the flaneur travelling then waiting to reveal the usually unnoticed.
Adam Mann’s work is a collection of random subjects while Cathy Laudenbach has a focus on secluded spaces. Both display a good use of the craft of photography. However, as I know the original American style very well, I have to say they have not advanced much on this particular way of seeing the world around us.
I happen to like this style of photography a lot, and while I found this exhibition of interest, I came away ‘longing’ for something more.
That’s my view, and I hope that others will make their way over to Dickson to make up their own minds. The exhibition is worth the visit—and there are loads of good coffee places at the nearby Dickson shops.
One final note. Part of my research for such exhibitions often depends on the gallery’s online material. In this case, the gallery has not helped in the marketing of the artists.
There is very little to inform anyone about the artists and the website functionality is confusing. For me it is easy to see their exhibitions, as ANCA is on one of my regular Dickson area walks. But for anyone who has to travel across town, the website information would be barrier to the making that commitment to visit.
LONGING: Exhibition at ANCA by Catherine Laudenbach and Adam Mann, is open until 21 June 2015. It is open Wednesday – Sunday: 12 – 5pm.