Phenomenal images at free event: Edward Burtynsky

Arts & Entertainment Exhibitions Scene

Rita Bratovich
August 21, 2022

Image: Shipbreaking #23, Chittagong, Bangladesh, 2000 Photo - c Edward Burtynsky

For just over three weeks, Taylor Square will be dominated by a giant installation featuring the extraordinary images of world-renowned Canadian photographer, Edward Burtynsky. Presented by Sydney Festival, In The Wake of Progress is a multi-media, immersive work that asks the question: what price, progress?

Burtynsky’s installation received critical acclaim when it premiered at Toronto’s Luminato Festival last year. It is comprised of over-sized digital screens placed so that they surround the viewer. On these, a continuous reel is played featuring images and film taken by Burtynsky during his 40 years as a photographer.

The startling images depict the sheer beauty and majesty of the natural world abrasively juxtaposed against stark, intrusive industrialisation. The presentation is underscored by original music written especially for the piece.

Curated from his 40-year collection of photographs taken from quiet, remote corners to frenetic cities all over the globe, In The Wake of Progress is at once, a passive reflection and an ardent call to action for the planet.

Among the images are aerial views of pretzel-shaped freeways, sepia-toned cityscapes, crystalline cliffs and gem-coloured lakes. From a distance it is often difficult to distinguish whether the stunning geometry and hues belong to a natural wonder or man-made blight.

In conjunction with Sydney Festival, Australian Museum will host a talk with Edward Burtynsky. The one night only special event is free, but you must register.