The Barber Institute of Fine Arts, 9 June-24 September 2017
The dawn of photography in the mid-19th century made portraiture accessible to a much wider public. This exhibition explored early photographic studio portraiture, including the popular carte-de-visite format.
It examined how photographic techniques, backdrops, props, costumes and poses enabled public figures – ranging from Oscar Wilde through Ellen Terry to Queen Victoria – to fashion and promote their own identities. It also suggested how studio photography contributed to the modern idea of celebrity.
Curated in partnership with the , it also featured loans from the University’s Cadbury Research Library and Research and Cultural Collections.
This exhibition was curated by: Alice Benbow, Joy Corcec, Catrin (Megan) Evans, Xiyao Ma, Emma Marley, Laura Segal, Roseanna Smith, Anita Ubertone, Ainsley Vinall, and John Walker.
The exhibition had an excellent reception, with visitor comments including:
‘Always worth a visit to the Barber. Another really interesting exhibition.’
‘Fascinating insight into a different form of portraiture. Very informative and enjoyable.’
‘Most illuminating and beautifully curated.’
‘Most interesting and well put together exhibition.’
‘Great exhibition! I really enjoy learning about old style photography.’
‘Fascinating exploration of the development of portrait photography.’
Images supplied courtesy of The Barber Institute of Fine Arts.