I am based in Sydney however due to the fact my work develops directly through travel and related research, I am often out of Sydney on road trips across NSW and beyond. My work delves into the history of photography, accessing photographic archives, referencing key practitioners, processes and materialities fundamental to photography. I have just completed the first 20 gelatin silver photographs in a planned series of 220 photographs, appropriating the work of American landscape photographer Ansel Adams. I am also researching and photographing the Victorian high plains landscape at the moment. In particular I am focused on early and mid 20th century concrete dam infrastructure, and estivation (hibernation) sites of the bogong moth.

The National Photography Prize is unique in Australia because it allows finalists to develop a small body of work for the award exhibition. This enables artists to draw upon the depth within their practice and shine conceptually and materially. The National Photography Prize exhibition allows for an expanded view of photography. It is not simply an exhibition of photographs, it is an exhibition of contemporary art that utilises photography in some way. I believe this is incredibly important and absolutely elevates the practice of photography in contemporary art in Australia today.

Winning the 2018 National Photography Prize has been an incredible career highlight for me. It was the first time I had been recognised nationally and rewarded financially in such a generous way, allowing me to work solidly without the usual financial pressures. It also elevated my profile as an artist and opened doors to a new network of curators, galleries and fellow artists.

I am excited and equally humbled by the special opportunity I have to view the full range of submissions the prize will attract. It’s an opportunity to catch a glimpse of where photography is at today. I am hoping to be surprised, discover the work of artists unknown to me and gain deeper insight into the work of artists I may already be familiar with. Seriously exciting!