Museums and universities hold some of the world’s best photography collections. Unlike works owned by private collectors, these institutions have a mission that includes sharing their collections with the public. But due to exhibition schedules and space constraints, many exquisite works are kept in storage for most of their lives. This series asks museum and university curators to mine their institution’s archives and share a selection of photographic works online for Don’t Take Pictures.

In 2016, The Museum of Photographic Arts (MOPA) established the Peter and Olivia Farrell Collection of Australian Photography in its permanent collection with the acquisition of 24 photographs and 100 photo books. The acquisition is part of a larger initiative to expand MOPA’s permanent collection to include Pacific Rim artists and elevate Australian photography to a wider global audience while supporting photographers from that region.

“This is an ambitious endeavor to better share the wonders of Australian photography with the public,” MOPA Executive Director Deborah Klochko said. “We’re not looking to re-create or redefine it. We want to showcase it, while learning more about the phenomenal work being done.”

A range of artists are represented in the collection from early 20th century icons, such as Max Dupain, to more recent work of internationally known photographers like Matthew Sleeth and Cherine Fahd.

The Museum of Photographic Arts is located in San Diego, California.