Ian Darling is one of Australia’s most celebrated documentary filmmakers with credits including The Final Quarter, The Pool and Paul Kelly: Stories of Me. He is also an accomplished photographer whose work features in the National Portrait Gallery.
The Valley Portraits exhibition emerged while Ian was making his latest film, The Valley.
Asked about his inspiration, Ian said, “ While making the film, I was driven not only to tell the stories of this community but also to intimately capture the faces, endeavours and quiet strength of the locals we met along the way – portraits that speak beyond the camera’s lens and embody the heart and soul of Kangaroo Valley.”
“I observed that most people in a rural community and small town are largely defined and identified by what they do,’ he continued. “Their professions, routines, and skills reveal their character and resilience, shaping their identities in profound ways. These images aim to portray the essence of the community and celebrate those who dedicate their lives to their land, craft and local businesses. My aim was to capture the profound humanity behind everyday routines, highlighting the perseverance and commitment of the town’s inhabitants and country folk I met. These portraits celebrate their humility and the beauty of a simple, hardworking life.”
The portraits have been inspired by the works of various artists, photographers, filmmakers, and writers. They draw from the solitude and isolation found in an Edward Hopper painting, the honest and straightforward portrayal of daily routines in a Frederick Wiseman film, the realism and everyday truths found in Studs Terkel’s writings—especially Working.
They also reflect Annie Leibovitz’s bold use of colour and narrative richness, the environmental framing of an Arnold Newman image, and Raymond Carver’s economical storytelling that captures life as it is. Together, these influences deepen the understanding of the portraits and the daily life of this rural community, highlighting their quiet strength and harmonious relationship with their environment.
Ian Darling’s photographs have been recognised in several competitions, including the National Photographic Portrait Prize at the National Portrait Gallery, the Moran Contemporary Photographic Prize, the Sydney Life Photography Prize, and the Head On Portrait Prize.
Renowned war photographer Stephen Dupont will officially open the exhibition on Sunday November 9 at 2pm.
Friday November 7 – Sunday November 23
Old Store, Kangaroo Valley
