The World Press Photo Exhibition

A late invitation to the opening of the World Press Photo exhibition rendered a quick trip home during lunchtime to pick up a fabulous dress, heels and make-up supplies. Sometimes I like last minute off the cuff plans. It makes life exciting. I left behind the busy news reporters and camera crew in their noisy oil repellent pants and stepped out, glammed up.

This evening’s attire:

Outfit: Debut wearing of gorgeous navy blue dress, perfect for opening event.

Shoes: A tough decision, but settled on shiny snakeskin heels from Hong Kong.

Tauranga Art Gallery was a hive of activity and a sea of suits. My first port of call was for a glass of sav. I stood, then sat, then stood, then backed off to the outskirts. I’m not an experienced ‘mingler’. Greg the director threw me a life ring and gave me the low down for the evening. A lovely young graphic designer student asked if I was waiting for somebody.

“No, I’m here on my own.” I responded.

She was intrigued about my role as the official blogger for the Tauranga Arts Fest.

After the speeches, the rope was dropped and we spilled into the exhibition. I stood back and observed, took notes in a journal and contemplated an iPad purchase (which is completely justifiable as it would be an asset for my blogspertise). It was hard to gauge reactions, as there were quite a few people. I was thankful that there was such a large crowd to mask the images that could potentially make me quite emotional. I recognised and chatted to a couple of clients. Then I decided that I would come back the next day to really take the time to let the exhibition envelope me.

I visited again yesterday and I really do recommend it for many reasons. Not only are we fortunate to have a well-renowned exhibition in our own backyard that has toured the globe and been seen by over 2 million people, but for its ability to strip you back and make you feel humble and appreciative for what you have.

I can guarantee that there would be at least one image that would make a profound impression on you. From the compositions, to seeing photos from places I had never heard of, to personally connecting with and being emotionally vulnerable to the imagery. A rare moment with Kim Jong-il and his favoured son, young Irish gypsies dolled up to their nines, a Chinese oil slick that you immediately empathise with and the bravery of a woman shown by her disfigured face.

I had my own personal conflict whilst indulging in voyeurism, as I’m unsure how some of the photo journalists were able to actually take some of these images. Then I realised that it was to create an awareness and understanding. You can become almost immune to what you see in print, as it doesn’t seem real. But as I walked out of a silent smaller room that came with a sign posted warning for content that may offend, holding back tears, I knew that this exhibition would leave its footprint on me.

The World Press Photo exhibition is a must see. It’s not one of those things you think ‘I’d like to go to’ and never get around to. It’s definitely worth the trip for the experience and for the privilege you feel to have met it.

The World Press Photo Exhibition is on now at the Tauranga Art Gallery until 6^th November. Entry is $5.