Brent Lukey's immersive photography exhibition unveils shadows of history.
Get ready to delve into the hidden tales of Pentridge Prison as Melbourne photographer Brent Lukey, in collaboration with sound designer Anthony Artmann, presents a free immersive experience titled “Could the shadows speak? And if so, what would they say?”
The National Trust of Australia (Victoria) proudly hosts this unique exhibition until the end of January, offering a rare glimpse into the prison’s concealed narratives.
Stay up to date with what’s happening within the region’s art scene here.
Venturing beyond the conventional, visitors are invited to step into a captivating realm where history intertwines with the present. Brent Lukey, armed with his lens, captures the unseen facets of Pentridge Prison, known only to its former inmates and staff. The exhibition promises an exploration of shadows that echo with tales of the past.
Renowned for his portraiture and interiors, Brent Lukey’s work has been a finalist in esteemed awards like the Olive Cotton Award and the Moran Photographic Prize. Supported by the City of Melbourne’s Creative Spaces program, Lukey’s photographs explore the intersection of time, place, and identity.
View this post on Instagram
Adding a personal touch to the exhibition, Brent Lukey shares a familial connection with Pentridge Prison – his grandmother once worked in the Prison Hospital. This connection adds depth to his work, which focuses on history without embellishment, bringing attention to the present and the enduring remnants of time.
Lukey’s lens focuses on the eerie beauty of the abandoned prison. Stripped of personal artifacts, Pentridge’s bluestone structure resonates with a ghostly aura. Silent doorways, shadows, and peeling paint become the subjects of his exploration, revealing the weight of isolation in the cells and the glimmer of hope brought by sunlight.
The immersive experience is not limited to visuals alone. Collaborating with sound designer Anthony Artmann, Lukey introduces an atmospheric soundscape recorded within the prison. Influenced by luminaries like Brian Eno and Steve Reich, the sound design adds layers to the exhibition, delving into the depths of sensory perception.
In Lukey’s words, “Time and space become malleable, inviting attendees to transcend boundaries, where past, present, and future coexist.” The sound design acts as a bridge between surveillance and introspection, challenging our place in a dynamically shifting world.
“Could the shadows speak? And if so, what would they say?” unfolds its mysteries daily until 26 January 2024 at Warders Upstairs at Pentridge Prison, offering free entry to all intrigued souls.
For more information, visit Pentridge Prison Tours.
