Homage to Chicks by Sophie Howarth
Big Day Out, 2002.
As the official photographer for one of the world’s most successful rock music festivals, the Big Day Out, Sophie Howarth became fascinated with capturing the festival experience—the audience, performer, energy and the binding connection that is unseen. A regular at all festivals, including Splendour in the Grass, LIVID, Homebake, Vibes on a Summer’s Day and Summersault, Howarth established her art practice in the genre of visual anthropology.
This exhibition represents over 20 years of imagery from Sophie Howarth’s music photography archive. Homage to Chicks is a series of 126 photographs which create a complete artwork with a single message of reverence for the many women she has documented over the years. To them, Howarth 'pays homage' and establishes them at the centre of this story.
The narrative of photographs in Homage to Chicks uses a combination of wide and detail shots, as well as landscape and portraiture. The series takes viewers on a ‘ride,’ immersing them in the festival crowds, taking them on stage with the musicians, and giving them exclusive views from backstage.
The photographs show viewers different aspects of women in the music industry. Images range from a Top End classroom with Shellie Morris as she uses music to teach Indigenous kids about healthy tucker, to PJ Harvey as she stares down the lens moments before going onstage at the Big Day Out.
The series captures key moments, such as Bjork’s theatrical beauty on stage, Channel V presenter, Yumi Stynes—heavily pregnant—backstage at the Big Day Out, and artist Courtney Love as she screams out to her audience. There are many moments from Homebake, Splendour in the Grass, Big Day Out, Summersault; all our Australian festival favourites are represented, transporting the viewer to experience the electric atmosphere.
Homage to Chicks is a featured exhibition of Head On Photo Festival 2022.
Opening night: Tuesday, 8 November, 6pm - 9pm.
Willoughby City Council is gratefully acknowledged for the provision of Art Space on The Concourse.
