In a continually changing social and political arena, defined by surveillance, data dissemination and ecological concerns, how can photography make sense of the world? Through aerial images, large-scale compositions and abstracted forms, this week’s selection demonstrates the multiplicity of ways practitioners are engaging with timely ideas.
Franco Fontana: Horizons, Musée de la Photographie Charles Nègre, Nice
An interest in colour, shape and light defines Fontana’s (b. 1933) practice. Offering surprising perspectives on urban and natural landscapes, a bold body of work investigates the possibilities of the medium by creating innovative and often abstract compositions that redefine built structures and lush sceneries.
Until 30 September. Find out more here.
Jeff Wall: Appearance, Kunsthalle Mannheim, Mannheim
By referring to the history of art, Wall’s (b. 1946) large-format, cinematic photographs offer a contemporary take on time-honoured techniques. Often compared to modern masters such as Eugène Delacroix and Edouard Manet, the practitioner creates highly orchestrated, stylised constructions.
From 2 June. Find out more here.
Frank Horvat: Storia di un fotografo, Palazzo Chiablese Musei Reali, Turin
As a fashion photographer and photojournalist, Horvat (b. 1928) has approached image-making from a variety of angles. This show highlights his multifaceted practice, investigating the environment and wider notions of humanity whilst foregrounding Horvat’s unique contributions to international publications such as Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar.
Until 10 June. Find out more here.
At Altitude, Towner Art Gallery, Eastbourne
Tapping into timely ideas of satellite imaging, global surveillance and drone technologies, Towner Art Gallery’s exhibition brings together work by Mishka Henner, Jananne Al-Ani, Tacita Dean, Wolfgang Tilmans and Cornelia Parker, exploring how the experience of viewing the world has been altered in the digital age.
From 2 June. Find out more here.
Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation Prize, The Photographers’ Gallery, London
In a culture defined by a continual stream of news, it is easy to become detached. The four projects shortlisted for the Deutsche Börse Photography Foundation Prize 2018 – by Luke Willis Thompson, Mathieu Asselin, Rafal Milach and Batia Suter – share an interest in the distribution and subsequent manipulation of facts.
Until 3 June. Find out more here.
Credits:
1. URBAN LANSCAPE, LOS ANGELES 1990. Image by Franco Fontana.
2. Jeff Wall, Summer Afternoons, 2013. Art Gallery of New South Wales Foundation Purchase 2014 © Jeff Wall
3. Frank Horvat, 1976, Bahamas, for Glamour USA, illustration for exercise on the beach (a)
4. © Mishka Henner
5. Rafal Milach, from the series “Refusal” / Gori, Georgia, 2013.
