Sydney's Powerhouse announces major photography commissions

Sydney's Powerhouse has announced expressions of interest are now open for two major photography commissions, presenting emerging and established photographers with support to develop major works.

Expressions of interest for the First Nations Right of Reply Photography Commission and the Powerhouse Photography Architectural Commission are open now.

Both commissions are part of Powerhouse Photography, an industry-led initiative dedicated to amplifying Australian photography.

The First Nations Right of Reply Commission invites Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander photographers to respond to and engage with the Powerhouse Collection.

The 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.

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.’

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.

From there, shortlisted applicants will be given a detailed project briefing, and will 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.

Powerhouse Head of Program and Co-Chair of the Powerhouse Photography Advisory Group Sarah Rees described the opportunities as exciting.

"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