Get ready to be swept up in the raw energy of Newcastle's past and present as two groundbreaking photographers bring their unique visions to the Baltic Centre for Contemporary Art! 'Close to Home' is a blockbuster exhibition that pits the gritty, black-and-white masterpieces of Tish Murtha against the vibrant, full-colour creations of Kuba Ryniewicz – a thrilling clash of styles that's sure to leave you breathless.
Murtha's work is like a punch to the gut – it hits you with the harsh realities of industrial decline and unemployment in 1970s and '80s Newcastle. Her iconic series, featuring images like 'Youth Unemployment', 'Elswick Kids', and 'Save Scotswood Works', are presented together for the first time in the North East, and they pack a powerful punch. You'll see kids playing in urban landscapes, young men struggling to find work – but also glimmers of hope and resilience amidst the turmoil.
But then comes Ryniewicz's explosion of colour and optimism! This Polish-born photographer who made Newcastle his home in 2004 presents a stunning collection of new works and selected pieces from series like 'Daily Weeding', 'Cornered Study', and 'Good Eggs'. His photographs are unframed and directly affixed to the walls, giving them an almost tactile feel. And when you watch his film component for 'Close to Home', which features present-day residents talking about what brings them joy – sunshine, breakfast, friends, family... it's like a breath of fresh air!
What links these two incredible photographers is their ability to capture authentic community moments – they lived and breathed the environments they photographed. This shared approach forms the heart of 'Close to Home', which invites you to reflect on how our pursuit of happiness evolves over time.
The exhibition is a testament to Tish Murtha's enduring legacy, with her striking photographs detailing the human spirit in adversity, while Ryniewicz's work bursts with life, transforming everyday scenes into something magical. So come and join the conversation – what does it mean to find happiness, no matter the circumstances? The answer might just surprise you!
Don't miss this unforgettable exhibition, which promises to be a wild ride through the highs and lows of Newcastle's story. 'Close to Home' is a must-see for anyone who loves photography, community, or simply good storytelling – so grab your ticket and get ready to experience it all for yourself!
Tish Murtha may have left us in 2013, but her work continues to resonate, offering valuable insights into our shared human experiences. 'Close to Home' is a fitting tribute to her legacy, and a testament to the power of photography to capture the essence of who we are – now and forever.