Andy Hansen - 'Necessary Distraction' group exhibition at Photospace Gallery, Wellington, 3 June to 2 July, 2022

Photo by Andy Hansen from 'Eyes On Newtown' series, 2021-22

Andy Hansen - artist statement:

Living in Newtown makes the Wellington suburb a natural subject for most of my work. Every day is a new opportunity to see how this community has changed around me. During last year's lockdown I found myself exploring the aspects of community which are not face-to-face. Examples turned up everywhere; donations to an op shop becoming an unlikely gallery, some shared mischief upon leaving the hospital, an artistic restoration to a neglected building. The members of these communities all add to or subtract from the world around them, maybe never seeing who they share it with, but participating all the same.
 
As I overcome my fear of portrait photography I'd like to take this work further. I'm inspired by the work of Julie Riley, who often paired her portraits with interviews about the people and their lives. Over time, I would love to develop my work towards the thoughtful and insightful books of hers such as Men Alone, or Our Town.

Note: Andy's photographs are displayed in gallery room 4 (the office) and are for sale. Large prints $160 each, smaller prints $90 each. We also have a few copies of his photo 'zine, $15 each, orders taken if we run out.

Photo by Andy Hansen from 'Eyes On Newtown' series, 2021-22