The Art Gallery of NSW has the advantage of having in their possession an awesome collection of photographs, so they can whip up a brilliant exhibition that can shed a new light on photography without necessarily showcasing new work.

What’s in a face is arranged as a timeline, starting from the early 20th century, when

portrait photography started to evolve into a means of capturing a person’s inner world rather than merely their external appearance and social standing.

Although techniques and methods have changed substantially over time

, a commonality among the photographs became clear after a few laps around the room.

The photographs are a record of a time and place: a family, an artist’s collective, or a holiday but above all else they are an homage to the subject’s existence both in that moment and their whole life.

The photographs are a window into different worlds through the prism of that particular individual.

The excellent talent of Man Ray, Max Dupain, Ben Cauchi and all the others reminded me of the beauty and depth of this art form.

In a world exploded with soulless selfies, it was most restorative to dwell amongst these works of art.

What’s in a face? Aspects of portrait photography

WHEN: now until 5th February

WHERE: Art Gallery of NSW, The Domain

COST: free

Georgia Booth

georgiajbooth@gmail.com