Now And Then

Launched as an online project by ABC Open in October 2010, Now And Then invited people across Australia to share their stories about local people and places.

Regional Australians have contributed images reframing historical photos from a mix of collections including family albums, libraries, historical societies and museums, and the archives of schools, companies and charitable organisations.

"Once a popular swimming spot for local families, the Port Kembla rock pool has fallen into disuse over the past few decades. The original wall of the rock pool is still standing, just, and the pool is now full of sand, but at very high tide the sea still flows in. Although most locals now swim around the other side of the headland at the Port Kembla beach and baths, families still walk along the coast here, passing through the rock pool, perhaps unaware that 100 years ago there may have been dozens of children swimming and playing in this place."

Sean O’Brien

Now And Then is a historical photography project with a twist – an old photo is reframed within a new one to tell a story of past moments and how times have changed.

This exhibition celebrates the legacy of both private and public photograph collections cared for in regional towns. The images demonstrate the rich tapestry of history, landscapes and cultures found across Australia.

We received a large number of photos and after much debate, announced our winners!

Congratulations to Carley Tucker, for Postcard Views (1st Prize), Heather Turner, for South Cronulla Beach (2nd prize) and Beryl Mitchell, for Herald Corner mid 1850s (3rd prize).

The winning photographs were on display at the Museum of Sydney from 27 August.

Exhibition partner: ABC Open

Sponsor: Momento

Media supporter: 702 ABC

Part of Art & About, City of Sydney

Past exhibition

  • 16 June 2012 - 4 November 2012