People Power – Platon
World Premiere Exclusive to Ballarat
Ballarat International Foto Biennale will lead its 10th festival with the arresting work of international portrait photographer Platon. People Power – Platon is a comprehensive world-first exclusive-to-Ballarat exhibition of over 120 portraits of the people who have shaped our world.
From the cool gaze of Putin to the contortion of Gaddafi, the art and expression of Vivienne Westwood, the influence of Yoko Ono, the dynamism of Prince, the courage of Michelle Obama, the power of Adele, the striking features of Cate Blanchett, the memorable Kevin Rudd and his campaigns, the rebellion of Pussy Riot – Platon’s work is powerful.
“This is an exhibition about people power—those who hold immense authority and those who have been robbed of power. With this show I hope to provoke a respectful debate. Come join us.” Platon
Platon, Self Portrait with George Lois, June 2012
Platon has been a staff photographer for The New Yorker since 2008. He serves as the Creative Director at Large for the Center for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta, GA, is a member of the board for Arts and Culture at the World Economic Forum and serves as a steward for the Economic Growth and Social Inclusion Initiative.
In 2013, Platon founded the not-for-profit organisation The People’s Portfolio to document humanitarian efforts around the world. His portfolios include photographs of Burmese victims and exiles, Egyptian revolutionaries, and those fighting against oppression in Russia.
The 10th Ballarat International Foto Biennale runs 26 August to 22 October 2023.
First held in 2005 as a regional exhibition, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale has become one of Australia’s most immersive and engaging photographic arts events. Held every two years on Wadawurrung and Dja Dja Wurrung Country in Victoria, the Biennale has evolved into a 60-day festival presented across the regional city of Ballarat. It showcases work from domestic and international photographic artists that is new or previously unseen in Australia and provides opportunities for new and emerging Australian artists to exhibit their work. Attracting local, national, and international audiences, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale has established itself as a marque event in Australia’s cultural landscape.
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