From The Pit – an Exhibition of New Zealand Music Photography
24th May 2021
Thistle Hall, Wellington, New Zealand.
Review by Hilaire Carmody. Opening Night photography by Bruce Mackay & Jecht Taylor.
Every week, venue spaces across New Zealand are flooded with fans and music lovers. Gathering for gigs to share in moments of appreciation, joy and creation. Each week an intrepid group of kiwis brave the middle of the pit to photograph live music. Preserving the spirit and unique mood of each concert.
In celebration of NZ Music Month FromThePit gathers imagery from these photographers. Showcasing New Zealand musicians playing live. It is a celebration of the craft and art of live music photography. Exhibits are running simultaneously in Auckland, Wellington, and Christchurch.
I dropped by the Wellington exhibit to see what was on offer. Cunningly enough the organisers had managed to secure a space at Thistle Hall Community Venue. At one point this venue was a thriving punk palace and an integral part of the Wellington arts and underground movement. These days stepping into the well-lit, airy venue is a contrast from its dingier days. However, the space worked for the size of the exhibit and pieces on display.
With over 30 photographers on show and a dazzling array of photography styles. There was a sense of order and ease of flow of the way the works were hung. We started on the left of the room with older works, in portrait orientation, featuring iconic bands such as The Datsuns and Shihad. Ending on the far side with recent work showcasing contemporary artist in landscape style such as Ladi6 and Deadbeat Dads. In between we had everything else. Genres covered included rock, reggae, funk, punk and more. Stunning highly colourised images providing a foil for a section of high contract black and white photos.
Opening night was rather special. We had the delight of up-and-coming songstress Maako Music dropping in. Armed with only a UE boom and her divine voice, we were treated to two of her original songs. Keep an eye out for her! Matt Hyde of Beastwars made an appearance to especially sign his portrait. The Wellington contingent of photographers that contributed to this exhibition were also present. Giving the general public an opportunity to discuss all things related to music and photography. A beautiful vibe for an interesting exhibition.
All artworks have information and links to the photographer’s social media. Which makes it easy to follow your favourites and keep up with the bands and gigs that they are covering. Also, all the prints are for sale. You can contact the photographers direct to get your own piece of kiwi music history.
Running until Sunday 30th May, there is only a short window to see these works together. With something for everyone it is well worth a visit. This is a great overview of not only NZ talent on stage, but also NZ talent behind the lens.
LIST OF PHOTOGRAPHERS
Alexander Hallag, Amanda Hailwood, Amanda Hodge, Bevan Triebels, Braedyn Wallis, Bruce Mackay, Chontalle Musson, Chris Morgan, Chris Zwaagdyk, Craig Baxter, Dave Simpson, David Watson, Des Nielsen, Doug Peters, Garry Thomas, Ginelle Cocks, Jared Tinetti, Jecht Taylor, Jenny Feaver, Joseph James, Lucy Hammond, Mark Derricutt, Mark Roach, Melany Barrington, Nichole June, Nick Paulsen, Nikita Weir, Rachel Webb, Reuben Raj, Shelley Te Haara, Stella Gardiner, Tom Grut, Trevor Villers
The From The Pit exhibition is running simultaneously in Auckland (Monster Valley), Wellington (Thistle Hall) and Christchurch (Pūmanawa, The Arts Centre) until the 30th May. For more info, including opening hours and workshops you can visit the From The Pit website here.
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