Atong Atem in conversation with Zanny Begg

Atong Atem is an Ethiopian born, South Sudanese artist living in Naarm/Melbourne. Atem’s work explores the inherent intimacy of portraiture while interrogating photography as a framework for looking at the world and positioning herself and others within it. Reversing the power imbalances of Western ideals of beauty, and photographic portraiture, Atem’s work probes issues of identity, Blackness, fantasy, truth and belonging.

Atem has exhibited her work across Australia, including National Gallery of Victoria, Art Gallery of New South Wales, and the National Portrait Gallery and will be opening a solo exhibition at the National Gallery Victoria later this year. Atem has exhibited internationally at the Tate Modern, London, Rotterdam’s Wereldmuseum, Fotografiska Shanghai, Stadtgalerie, Germany and with PHOTO Australia at the Victoria and Albert Museum (V&A).

Portraits has been curated by Shoalhaven Regional Gallery Director Zanny Begg to run alongside the Archibald Prize touring exhibition.

Atong Atem – Portraits exhibition runs 16 May – 18 July in North Gallery, Shoalhaven Regional Gallery.