Welcome to ZAHALKAWORLD, where art history gets a cheeky makeover.
The National Art School (NAS) has just rolled out the red carpet for an art extravaganza like no other. Anne Zahalka, a name that echoes through the hallowed halls of photo-media art, has unveiled her latest and greatest: ZAHALKAWORLD – an artist’s archive. This exhibition is a glorious ride through over 40 years of Zahalka’s photographic prowess, showcasing more than 100 works from a whopping 15 series. If you’re in Sydney before October 19, head over to the NAS Gallery to catch a glimpse.
Zahalka, whose work is tucked away in prestigious collections like the National Gallery of Australia and even further afield, is renowned for her ability to poke fun at the familiar while proposing fresh perspectives. Her lens captures cultural diversity and environmental quandaries, blending humor with critique to challenge dominant narratives. And she’s not just rehashing the old; she’s spicing things up with six artworks from NAS’s own collection and five brand new pieces, fresh out of the creative oven in 2023-2024.
But wait, there’s more: The exhibition highlight, Kunstkammer, invites you to step into Zahalka’s world—literally. This life-sized recreation of her studio is a treasure trove of inspiration, offering a behind-the-scenes peek at the creative chaos that births her masterpieces. As if that’s not enough, you can book a one-on-one artist talk with Zahalka herself, live from her home-studio. How’s that for a bit of art-world intimacy?
ZAHALKAWORLD isn’t stopping in Sydney, folks. It’s set to embark on a national tour, spreading Zahalka’s artistic gospel far and wide. And for those who prefer to enjoy art with a cuppa, there’s a 210-page catalogue produced by the Museum of Australian Photography to peruse.
Steven Alderton, NAS CEO, shares his excitement: “Anne Zahalka has a long connection to the National Art School. After studying at NAS in 1978, she was a photo-media teacher during the 1980s. Since then, she has gone on to become one of the most prominent artists working in photography today and we are thrilled to present her major survey exhibition to our visitors and students.”
Zahalka herself is buzzing with enthusiasm: “I am thrilled to present this major survey at the National Art School in Sydney in my hometown. Curated around key photographic series and the archive that supports it, this immersive exhibition offers a first-hand experience of how I develop artworks, the research and material processes that are involved, and the context the works are made in.”
So, whether you’re an art aficionado or just in it for the selfies, ZAHALKAWORLD promises to be a highlight on the cultural calendar. Don’t miss it.