5 to See: This Weekend

5 to See: This Weekend

Demonstrating a variety of approaches to social documentary, this weekend’s must-see  exhibitions explore notions of identity through experimental, realist and stylised photography.

Wake up Together at Open Eye Gallery, Liverpool

As part of Homotopia Festival 2018, two shows champion the rights of individuals around the world. One exhibition is the first UK showing of experimental work by the late Chinese photographer Ren Hang, whilst Robin Hammond’s Where Love Is Illegal shares personal stories through text and image. Until 17 February.

Brassaï, SFMOMA, San Francisco

One of the most prominent figures of 20th century photography, Brassaï (1899-1984) was known for capturing enigmatic images of Paris during the interwar years. The works traverse cafés, bars and dance halls to draw a portrait of the 1930s experience, revealing complexities and hidden depths. Opens 17 November.

Simon Roberts: Homeland, Flowers Gallery, New York

Bringing together images from Roberts’ extensive surveys of Russia and Britain, Flowers Gallery reflects on the dialogues between contemporary national identity and place. The works explore shared narratives and universal experiences, combining landscape and social documentary genres. Until 12 January.

Martin Parr: Return to Manchester, Manchester Art Gallery

From black and white images of 1970s Salford to colour images of shoppers spanning 1986-2008, Parr’s unique documentary works offer insight into the changing experiences of the city’s communities. A signature style presents the familiar with a sense of honesty and humour. Until 22 April.

This Side of Paradise, Huxley-Parlour Gallery, London

Subverting the everyday through a striking use of colour and light, 20 cinematic compositions by photographers Todd Hido and Miles Aldridge explore ideas of domestic space and interior narratives. Highly stylised visuals combine with concealed storytelling, offering surreal landscapes. Until 15 December.

Credits:
1.
Simon Roberts, Untitled 3, Murmansk, Northern Russia
2. Untitled, Ren Hang, 2016. Courtesy of Stieglitz19, Belgium
3. Brassaï, Avenue de l’Observatoire in the Fog, ca. 1937; © Estate Brassaï Succession, Paris
4. Simon Roberts, Untitled 15, Murmansk Harbour, Northern Russia
5. Martin Parr, GB. England. Manchester. Moss side. 1978.
6. Home Works #3, 2008, Miles Aldridge.