Experience a landmark photography exhibition 📸
Now showing at Bayside Gallery, Max Dupain and Ansel Adams: In search of perfection is the only Victorian presentation of this major touring exhibition from the National Gallery of Australia.
Bringing together iconic works by two of the 20th century’s most influential photographers, the exhibition explores their shared pursuit of technical excellence, composition and the power of light.
Visitors can also enjoy a range of engaging workshops, talks and events designed to deepen their appreciation of photography.
Max Dupain and Ansel Adams: In search of perfection is a National Gallery Touring Exhibition presented as part of the Bowness Family Foundation Photography Touring Program.
On display until 30 August.
Alternative photography workshop with Greg Elms 📸 | Limited spots left
Join artist Greg Elms for an inspiring hands-on alternative photography workshop. In this unique workshop, Greg will share his experience with participants to reveal the creative potential of the humble flatbed scanner as an unconventional image-making tool.
When: Saturday 18 July, 9am to 12pm
Location: Bayley Arts, 1 Avoca Street, Highett
Cost: $50
Suitable for: Ages 16+
In conversation: Architectural photography 🏛️
In this fascinating conversation, Peter Maddison (Grand Designs Australia), photographer John Gollings, and Fiona Austin (Beaumaris Modern) will discuss the nuances and importance of architectural photography. Held in association with the exhibition Max Dupain and Ansel Adams: In search of perfection.
When: Wednesday 29 July, 6pm to 7pm
Location: Bayside Gallery, corner of Carpenter and Wilson Streets,
Brighton
Cost: Free
Suitable for: Adults
Modernist and majestic: Gael Newton on the work of Ansel Adams and Max Dupain 🏛️
Join Gael Newton AM, former Senior Curator of Photography at National Gallery of Australia, as she discusses Ansel Adams and Max Dupain’s shared but individual interpretations of 20th century modernist photography.
This is a rare opportunity to hear directly from one of Australia’s leading photography specialists and learn about the twentieth century’s most influential photographers through an expert lens.
When: Thursday 13 August, 6pm to 7pm
Location: Bayside Gallery, corner of Carpenter and Wilson Streets,
Brighton
Cost: Free
Suitable for: Adults
Analog Art Club 🎞️
Explore Max Dupain and Ansel Adams: In search of perfection mindfully and with curiosity in our monthly Analog Art Club. Step away from the tech, make some new friends and enjoy art in your local community.
When: Thursday 23 July and Thursday 27 August, 6pm to 7pm
Location: Bayside Gallery, corner of Carpenter and Wilson Streets,
Brighton
Cost: Free
Suitable for: Adults
Volunteer at Melbourne Sculpture Biennale 2026 📢
Be part of one of Victoria’s most exciting visual arts events. Bayside City Council is seeking volunteers to support the free exhibition between 8 to 25 October 2026, as the historic Billilla Mansion transforms into a vibrant hub for contemporary art, community engagement and sculptural installations by leading artists.
Volunteers will assist visitors, support exhibition operations and help create a welcoming experience for the community.
Enter the LOOK! prize ✨
Feeling inspired after visiting the Max Dupain and Ansel Adams: In search of perfection exhibition? Practising photographers and photography enthusiasts are invited to join the Museum of Australian Photography and enter the LOOK! prize, an annual exhibition and award showcasing outstanding work by MAPh members. Entries close Sunday 9 August.
Join Rewire Choir🎶
Rewire Choir is an inclusive, therapeutic choir designed for people living with dementia, along with their family members, friends and carers who support them.
Now underway and already bringing great energy and connection, sessions led by registered music therapist Zara Thompson use music to support health and wellbeing in a welcoming, supportive environment. No experience is needed and everyone is welcome.
When: Weekly on Thursdays, 2:30pm to 4pm
Where: Black Rock Activity Centre, 2 Karrakatta Street
Cost: FREE, bookings required
Image/art credits in order of appearance:
1.Max Dupain and Ansel Adams: In search of perfection 2026, installation view, Bayside Gallery. Photo: Mark Ashkanasy.
2.Greg Elms, Possum banksia, archival inkjet print, 95 x 95 cm.
3. Left to right Portraits of Peter Maddison, Fiona Auston and John Gollings. Supplied.
4.Gael Newton AM in front of Max Dupain’s View from Clarence Street studio 1947, supplied. Max Dupain, Pyrmont silos 1935, National Gallery of Australia, Kamberri/Canberra, purchased 1976
5. Max Dupain and Ansel Adams: In search of perfection 2026, installation view, Bayside Gallery. Photo: Mark Ashkanasy.
6. Melbourne Sculpture Biennale 2026
7. Museum of Australian Photography – LOOK! prize
8. Rewire Choir
