Platon to Headline Ballarat International Foto Biennale

The Ballarat International Foto Biennale has announced a comprehensive exhibition of photographer Platon’s portraits. People Power – Platon will include more than 120 of the artist’s most arresting images, including politicians such as Vladimir Putin and Muammar Gaddafi, fashionistas such as Vivienne Westwood, artists of all types such as Yoko Ono, Adele, and Cate Blanchette, and rebels such as the members of Pussy Riot.

The artist’s work has graced the covers of a multitude of publications, including Vanity Fair, GQ, the New York Times, The New Yorker, Time Magazine and British Vouge. Executed in a trademark style that utilises emotional immediacy, negative space and a monochromatic palette, the artist’s works are memorable and arresting.

“We are honoured to bring Platon and his work to Australia for the first time and give our audiences the opportunity to come face to face with these extraordinary portraits,” says Vanessa Gerrans, CEO of Ballarat International Foto Biennale, “this is an exclusive chance to hear Platon speak in person about his studio and humanitarian work.”

Having worked as the staff photographer for The New Yorker since 2008, he has also served for the Centre for Civil and Human Rights in Atlanta, USA, as Creative Director at Large, and founded the not-for-profit organisation The People’s Portfolio.

“There is power not just in the images we make but also in the narrative”, says the artist, “I am looking forward to sharing my stories and those of people who face incredible odds in the world but can still emerge with great compassion and kindness.”

The Ballarat International Foto Biennale is an unmissable festival focused on Photography, now in its 10^th edition. Taking place every two years, the festival brings together the best of Australian and international photography.

The biennale will run from Saturday 26 August until Friday 22 October, with Platon’s exhibition on view throughout. For more information, visit the biennale’s website here.