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.
Rex Dupain, Surf Race, Bondi, 2001
© Rex Daupin, MOPA’s Peter and Olivia Farrell Australian Photography Collection
Matthew Sleeth, Feet #5, 2002
© Matthew Sleeth, courtesy of the artist, Claire Oliver Gallery, New York, and MOPA’s Peter and Olivia Farrell Australian Photography Collection
Max Daupin, Top Hat, c.1930
© Max Dupain, MOPA’s Peter and Olivia Farrell Australian Photography Collection
Max Daupin, Solarised Jean in Wire Mesh, 1938
© Max Dupain, MOPA’s Peter and Olivia Farrell Australian Photography Collection
Cherine Fahd, The Chosen Dupain, 2003
© Cherine Fahd, MOPA’s Peter and Olivia Farrell Australian Photography Collection
Malcolm Parsley, Nude #10, 1995
© Malcolm Pasley, MOPA’s Peter and Olivia Farrell Australian Photography Collection
Bill Henson, Untitled #20 (LMO SH177 N2A), 2000/2001
© Bill Henson, MOPA’s Peter and Olivia Farrell Australian Photography Collection. Image courtesy of Bill Henson and Tolarno Galleries, Melbourne.
The Museum of Photographic Arts is located in San Diego, California.
