5A1 Activity Review｜Historical Scars and Memory Metaphors Under the Pinhole

Core sharing: Historical scars and memory metaphors under the pinhole

At the core of the exchange, Dr. Glenn Porter explained in depth the creative background and artistic thinking of his series of works "Out of the shadows of History" that is currently on display. Dr. Porter admitted that the project originated from his concern for the hidden truth in Australian history - especially the violent history of the British colonial period against the Aboriginal people. He challenged the "peaceful transition" narrative in childhood textbooks and revealed the cruel years full of resistance and injustice through photography.

The fusion of artistic form and profound connotation is the focus of Dr. Porter's sharing. He abandoned conventional cameras and chose to use a large-format pinhole camera for his creation. This unique technical choice is not accidental:

1. Symbolizing memory and time: The unique softness and graininess of the images produced by the pinhole camera are regarded by Dr. Porter as a metaphor for the fragility and ambiguity of time and memory. Historical truth is often obscured or changed in the passage of time and different narratives.

2. Emphasis on "place" rather than "landscape": Dr. Porter emphasized that these works are not aimed at beautiful landscapes, but focus on "the place where the event occurred". Based on the research results of historians and legal scholars, he went to more than 480 documented massacres or oppression sites (more than 438 sites have been discovered and recorded so far) to photograph the "present" scenes there. Regardless of their aesthetic value, the places themselves carry the weight of history.

3. Intuition and physical connection: Shooting with a pinhole camera without a viewfinder and light meter requires the creator to rely heavily on intuition and physical perception of the environment. Dr. Porter said that this approach made him feel that he had established a deeper connection with the land and the spiritual concept of divinity in Aboriginal culture, closer to the core of the history he recorded. He mentioned that during the shooting process, he sometimes felt a strong and even disturbing spiritual presence.

Dr. Porter plans to continue this project over the next four years, with the goal of photographing about 200 locations. He hopes to participate in Australia's ongoing "truth-telling" process through the power of photography, prompting society to face up to history and achieve a certain degree of reconciliation and healing. He emphasized: "I am not trying to change my country, I am proud of it. We can't change the past, but we can acknowledge the truth."

Diversity Collision: Works Sharing and Interactive Communication

The second half of the evening was an active work sharing and exchange session. Five of the creators present successively displayed their recent works, covering a variety of themes such as humanities documentary, social issues exploration, starry sky photography, and urban observation, presenting a rich creative perspective. Dr. Glenn Porter, curator Chun Wai and Professor David Lai listened carefully to the introduction of each speaker and gave pertinent suggestions.

The exhibition is ongoing, and 5A1 Art Space is sincerely calling you to pay a visit

The exchange meeting was held in the exhibition hall of 5A1 Art Space. The black and white pinhole film photography works of Dr. Glenn Porter's series "Out of the Shadows of History" were hung around, and under the background of the cut-light, a calm and historical atmosphere was created for the entire exchange event. Champagne, red wine, tea and exquisite snacks were prepared on site. The audience and guests communicated freely in a relaxed and pleasant environment, and heated discussions were held on topics such as photography art, historical narratives, and technical methods. This immersive exchange experience allows participants to have a deep exchange of ideas while appreciating the works.