Rennie Ellis
Australia 1940–2003
Sharpies, Melbourne (1973), printed c. 1977–78
gelatin silver photograph
15.1 x 21.0 cm
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased NGV Foundation, 2006
© Rennie Ellis Photographic Archive

Rennie Ellis
Australia 1940–2003
Boys with surfboards, Burleigh Heads 1978
35mm colour slide
Rennie Ellis Photographic Archive, Melbourne
© Rennie Ellis Photographic Archive

Rennie Ellis
Australia 1940–2003
Hippie, Kings Cross (1970–71)
from the Kings Cross series 1971
gelatin silver photograph
25.7 x 17.3 cm
National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne
Purchased, 2005
© Rennie Ellis Photographic Archive

No standing only dancing

Photographs by Rennie Ellis

31 October 08 – 22 February 09
Galleries 15 & 16, Level 3
Admission free

Photographer Rennie Ellis was renowned for his candid documentary images of contemporary Australian life. He was best known for his photographs of social events, such as music festivals, fashion parades or nightclubs. But his oeuvre also encompassed the grittier side of life. During his career he photographed life on the streets, sometimes showing the darker aspects of society such as his Kings Cross series. Ultimately, Ellis’ vision of the world was celebratory; his photographs in this exhibition document the richness and diversity of contemporary life from the 1970s and 1980s.

Please be advised that some artwork in this exhibition contains graphic material that may not be suitable for all audiences.