New Acquisitions: Photography at The High Museum of Art, Atlanta
Overview
This past exhibition, titled New Acquisitions: Photography, was held from June 12 to September 6, 2026, at The High Museum of Art in Atlanta. It represents a significant evolution in the museum’s photography collection, which began with its first photograph acquired in 1973 and the establishment of its photography department in 1993.
Exhibition Highlights
The exhibition featured remarkable works that had never been displayed at the museum before, underscoring the institution’s commitment to curating a collection that not only reflects the history of photography but also the cultural contexts in which the images were created. Featured photographers included notable figures such as Dawoud Bey, Rahim Fortune, Nikita Gale, Martine Gutierrez, and Richard Learoyd, among others.
One of the standout pieces was Nurphar Lake WY 5 by Matthew Brandt, an experimental work created using dye coupler print soaked in water from Nurphar Lake. This innovative technique resulted in unique alterations to the image through the physical interaction with nature.
Another highlighted work, Cathédrale de Chartres Royal Portal by Charles Nègre, emphasized the elegance of the Gothic cathedral, showcasing its intricate details through photogravure.
Significant Works
- Arresting Demonstrators, Birmingham from Bruce Davidson’s Time of Change series, a poignant gelatin silver print depicting a pivotal moment from the Civil Rights Movement.
- Elise with Snake from Carolyn Drake’s Knit Club series, illustrating the collaborative nature of storytelling among women in Mississippi.
- Birth Home by David Alekhuogie, capturing historical significance through the lens of personal experience.
Support and Sponsorship
The exhibition was organized by The High Museum of Art, Atlanta, with generous support from various sponsors, including the Fay S. and W. Barrett Howell Family Foundation and the LGBTQIA+ Photography Centennial Initiative.
Visitors had the opportunity to explore how the museum’s photography collection has evolved, encapsulating significant themes and techniques that mirror the artistry involved in curating such a diverse range of works.
