Powerhouse and the Office of the 24-Hour Economy Commissioner present NSW at Night; a new photography exhibition to be presented at NSW Parliament House from 3-26 March.

NSW photographers Andrew Quilty, Tajette O’Halloran, Anthony Rigby-Smith and Jade D’Amico have been commissioned to document the state’s rich and diverse night-time culture across Sydney’s inner city, Western Sydney, Wollongong and the Northern Rivers. The result is a series of portraits depicting the people, places and rhythms that define our state at night.

Six-time Walkley Award-winning photojournalist Quilty’s commission captures fleeting encounters and quiet moments across Sydney’s train network. O’Halloran has documented youth culture and rites of passage in the Northern Rivers. Illawarra-based Rigby-Smith’s photographs reveal the physical exertion, triumph and camaraderie of Wollongong’s evening run clubs while D’Amico immersed themself within Sydney’s music and club culture, capturing the energy and diversity of our NSW communities.

Andrew Quilty said, ‘I’ve always been drawn to photographing people in transit, whether it be refugees crossing borders, soldiers driving toward or returning from a frontline, or my own friends on a road trip. Similarly, these photographs represent a liminal period, characterised by the commuter’s anticipation of what’s ahead or memory of what has been, rather than as worthy of note in their own right. More than that, the series provides an unscientific, demographic cross-section of Sydney, or at least of those who use its rail network.’

Tajette O’Halloran said, ‘Being commissioned by Powerhouse to document nightlife in the Northern Rivers over the past 12 months has been incredibly inspiring. While closely aligned with my existing practice, the commission pushed me into new directions and clarified where I want my work to go next. I’m driven by telling regional stories, and this project has only deepened my commitment to exploring these worlds beyond the frame of the commission.’

24-Hour Economy Commissioner Michael Rodrigues said, ‘These photos capture just some of the diverse activities, offerings and nightlife precincts across NSW. Our State of the Night report found that people are seeking more activities after dark, from exercise and recreation to music and movies, and these images capture that vibrancy. We are proud to partner with Powerhouse on this exhibition showcasing just a few of the authentic stories that shape the NSW night-time economy.’

Powerhouse Chief Executive Lisa Havilah said, ‘NSW at Night provides an insight into the state’s diverse night-time culture through a series of photographs from four standout photographers. Powerhouse is thrilled to support this exhibition, showcasing the diverse night-time activity and photographic practice present across NSW.’

Visit the NSW at Night at Parliament House from 9am-5pm on weekdays from 3 – 26 March. For more information visit http://www.powerhouse.com.au/program/nsw-at-night.

EXHIBITION DETAILS

NSW at Night

Fountain Court, Parliament of NSW
3-26 March
Weekdays 9-5pm