Walls dictate where we can and can’t go, how we exist within our community and how we view others. Walls divide and unite. They become message boards, spaces for people to project opinions of their current milieu. Walls can be viewed as a symbol for anything by anyone, making it a fascinating subject to give us a deeper understanding of the world we live in. The Annenberg Space For Photography’s exhibition W|ALLS: Defend, Divide, and the Divine, explores these structures and how artists throughout time have represented them.
Through the work of 70 artists and photographers, the major new show examines walls' architectural role in society and the impact these structures have on those living within its vicinity. From the Berlin Wall to the Western Wall, works by Henri Cartier-Bresson, Bruno Barbey, Lucas Foglia and 2015 Sony World Photography Awards’ Photographer of the Year John Moore are included. Alongside a strong collection of photojournalism and documentary works are those taking a more conceptual, fine art approach, such as Tony De Los Reyes’ imaginative interpretation of one of the most infamous walls today: Donald Trump’s wall along the US-Mexican border.
Divided loosely into six sections – Delineation, Defense, Deterrent, The Divine, Decoration, and The Invisible – Curator Dr Jen Sudul Edwards, hopes the overlapping themes in each room echos the walls constantly shifting purpose within society since they were built. The thought-provoking display aligns with the center’s long history of exploring our shared humanity around the world through compelling art and photography. Speaking about the exhibition, Annenberg Foundation Chairman, President and CEO Wallis Annenberg says: ‘This exhibit will encourage visitors to explore the complex and multifaceted use of walls and challenge preconceived notions of why we build them.’
As part of the center’s celebrations for its 10th anniversary, the exhibition is open to December 29, 2019. There is also a variety of public programs to coincide with the exhibition, including unique workshops, educational and participatory panels, and conversations, as well as field trips, family activities, and more.
We are delighted Katie Hollander, Director of the Annenberg Space For Photography will be joining the 2020 Sony World Photography Awards Professional competition judging panel. See all judges here.
Discover more information here
Admission is free
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