On Sunday I had the privilege of visiting the Nick Brandt photographic exhibition ON THIS EARTH, A SHADOW FALLS at the Gadfly Gallery in Dalkeith, Perth, WA.

I have been a fan of Nick’s work for some time now but have never had the opportunity to see the prints in a gallery setting.

I was struck on many levels by the exhibition.

As a photographer interested in the commercial aspect (of the creation of fine art) I think Nick has created a body of work that is without question both beautiful, (and therefore appealing en-mass to the buyer) and financially lucrative (something to aspire to), with his consistent application of a unique technical approach re-enforcing the strength of his collection and therefore the value.

As a photographer too, I am struck by both his proximity to these animals and unique way in which he has photographed them. Having myself, on many occasions, been close to African wildlife in varying degrees of comfort or discomfort…the latter being charged, on foot, by an unhappy African Elephant in the Mana Pools Valley (Zimbabwe), I can attest to the fact that to take pictures like this is not something easily achieved.

As a ‘lover of the great outdoors’, Nick has made the beauty of Kenya accessible and most importantly (evolutionary debates aside) Nick has given his art and his work meaning in the creation and support of biglifeafrica.org.

The poaching of these magnificent animals is not only totally irresponsible and short-sighted but bordering on evil. The shadow that falls on this earth is indeed dark…

As I have found with many of the truly great photographers, their work has meaning beyond self glorification. Take James Natchwey or Yann Bertrand for example.

This is the arena where I believe you create a legacy and make a difference with the short time one is given on God’s Earth. Nick Brandt for what its worth I applaud your efforts and wish you immensely more success as you make a difference.

On This Earth A Shadow Falls

The exhibition closes on the 18th, make time to see it. Further details here. And if you cannot get there buy the signed book (see above), proceeds go to charity and it will be worth every cent.