'A Nomad's Harvest'
George Hallett at Iziko South African National GalleryTitled, 'George Hallett: A Nomad’s Harvest', the exhibition covers aspects of a career spanning more than half a century. The works on show are from the collection of George Hallett and augmented by a comprehensive display of biographical information, as well as, book and record covers designed by Hallett.
Born in Cape Town in 1942, George Hallett started his career as a street photographer in District Six. Early in his career, he was faced with the pressure of dealing with willing and unwilling subjects, the need to produce work acceptable to the client and the demands of tight deadlines. Regardless of these challenges, he always sought to capture that essential moment which would convey the essence of his subject.
Hallett left apartheid South Africa and moved to London in 1970, living and working for varying periods of time in France, the Netherlands, Zimbabwe and the United States. He led a nomadic existence, travelling widely and photographing in many countries and contexts. Included on this exhibition, amongst others, are recognisable images of Hout Bay, District Six, the Bo-Kaap, as well as immigrants and gypsies in London. His series of portraits of exiled South African writers, artists and musicians in London and France are of special interest.
Throughout his career, Hallett has conveyed positive images of humanity. His work is invariably infused with the warmth of humanity - his vision untrammeled by fallacious concepts around race and colour. His intention to always 'photograph the beautiful things in life,’ atestament to an affirmation of the life-enhancing qualities he strives to convey and concentrate on in his work.
'Museums such as Iziko have a central role to play in connecting people.We are proud to be part of theconversation;as we celebrate 20 years of freedom, sharing the artistic heritage of our nation, and hosting this exhibition at the Iziko South African National Gallery' says Rooksana Omar, CEO, Iziko.
Hallett returned to South Africa on a photographic assignment in 1995 and was recognised by the World Press Photo for his series of photographs of Nelson Mandela taken during the 1994 elections. Hallett decided to remain in South Africa. He was appointed the official photographer for the hearings of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission in 1997.
He continues to photograph and exhibit nationally and internationally. A number of books have been published on his work. These include 'Rhizomes of memory', 'District Six Revisited', 'Portraits of African Writer' and 'Richard Rive: A Partial Biography'.
Iziko Museums of South Africa extends its appreciation to Mr Hallett for his unstinting support and co-operation in realising this exhibition. The exhibition is curated by Pam Warne, Curator of Photography and New Media, and Joe Dolby.
05 March - 09 July
