Anne Zahalka is Newington College’s P&F New Women’s artist-in-residence for 2013. She is one of Australia’s best-known photographers. Zahalka has exhibited with Roslyn Oxley9 Gallery for almost 15 years presenting iconic series such as Bondi (1989) and Leisureland (1998-2001). As well as working with Newington College’s archivist, David Roberts, and being inspired by our rich history she has also spoken to and will be working with Year 9 Photographic and Digital Media students to execute some of their own portraits of artist.

On Back to Newington Day, Zahalka selected some historical objects to create a step-back-in-time photo booth in front of Founders Building. Zahalka’s practice has been widely recognised for its ability to recognise past images and represent them with the poignancy of contemporary cultural issues. Back to Newington Day was the perfect opportunity for Zahalka to document some significant families and members of the Newington College community. In particular we had the privilege of multiple families where all three generations of Newington men were present to have their portrait taken together on this special day. Along with these men over 50 members of the Newington community dressed up with the historical objects to celebrate the 150th birthday. Some of these photos will be exhibited in Concordia Gallery along with a series titled Artists at Concordia Gallery from October 22 – November 16, 2013.

Ms Hannah Chapman
Concordia Gallery Curator