Self and the World: A Conversation with Megan Jenkinson

Abstract

Megan Jenkinson speaks to Peter Ireland about her photographic work. Reflects on the prevailing notion of straight photography in the 1970s, and early explorations into the medium at Elam under the tutelage of Tom Hutchins and John B. Turner. Recalls early international influences including Bea Nettles, who revived hand-made print processes. Discusses collage work form the 1980s and 90s, highlighting the 'Virtues' series. Comments on the 'colour chart' works in relation to an interest in colour, perception and colour theory. Recalls Jenkinson's Antarctic Artist's Fellowship in 2005, and the series 'Antarctica'. Speaks to the 'Atmospheric Objects' and 'Certain Islands' series of lenticular prints and the 'Per Genus et Differentiam (By Kind and Difference)' series (1990), exhibited at the Sydney Biennale. Discusses the artist's first solo show in 1982, 'Rediscovering Galapogas', which took Darwin's theories of evolution as a starting point.