The renowned photojournalist Sir Don McCullin, celebrated for his gripping black-and-white photographs of war and humanitarian crises, is showcasing a different side of his artistic vision. But here's where it gets intriguing: an exhibition opening in Bath reveals his fascination with Roman sculptures, a subject far removed from his iconic war imagery.
The exhibition, titled 'Don McCullin: Broken Beauty', presents images of ancient statues captured during McCullin's travels to museums worldwide. These photographs, never before exhibited in the UK, mark a significant shift in his career, as the 90-year-old photographer declares this show to be his final bow.
McCullin's interest in Roman statues was sparked by his travels to North Africa with writer Bruce Chatwin in the 1970s, where he was captivated by the ancient ruins. This led to a book project, 'Southern Frontiers: A Journey Across The Roman Empire', which took him to various Roman sites in North Africa, pushing him out of his comfort zone.
The exhibition at the Holburne museum pairs these sculpture photographs with McCullin's renowned war images, creating a striking contrast. This juxtaposition highlights McCullin's desire to be known as more than just a war photographer, emphasizing his versatility and artistic range.
The jet-black backgrounds in the sculpture photographs are particularly captivating. McCullin attributes this to his soul, reflecting the darkness he witnessed during his career. This exhibition, according to the museum director, Chris Stephens, emphasizes McCullin's empathy and ability to capture humanity, even in the most horrific of circumstances.
Stephens also points out the significance of the black backgrounds, describing them as almost tangible, with an intense quality. He interprets McCullin's interest in the Roman Empire as a reflection of resilience and fragility, a reminder of the rise and fall of civilizations.
After this final exhibition, McCullin plans to retire and focus on his garden in Somerset, a peaceful pursuit far removed from the intensity of his photographic career. This exhibition, then, is a must-see for anyone interested in the diverse talents of this legendary photographer and the unexpected paths his art has taken.
