Anything but mundane, the photographs of Sydney-based artist Gavin Libotte transform suburbia into a realm of unexpected wonder. In his latest collection, Wanderland, towering dogs and seagulls dwarf unsuspecting joggers and beachgoers, creating a surreal tableau that challenges the viewer’s perception of everyday life. For Libotte, 56, this is not just art—it’s a way of seeing the world anew.
Libotte’s work is currently on display at the Head On Photo Festival at Bondi, where his images invite audiences to re-imagine the ordinary. “We’re very used to the world, and I think it becomes mundane because we’re looking at things in pretty much the same way all the time,” he explained. “We lose that ability we had as a child to have that sense of wonder.”
Reimagining the Everyday
The Wanderland collection is a testament to Libotte’s philosophy of seeing the world from a fresh perspective. Most of the photographs were taken over a five-year period at Manly Beach Promenade in Sydney. “When I did lower my camera … things just became completely amazing to me,” Libotte said, describing his technique of shooting from street level with a wide-angle 28-millimeter lens. This approach allows small subjects, like seagulls, to appear monumental.
Libotte further experimented with a handheld flash to “light that stage” and emulate the cinematic mise en scène, enhancing the drama of his compositions. One standout photograph features a group of seagulls appearing as towering figures, perfectly balanced against the backdrop of beachgoers. “That photo is a bit of a miracle to me,” he remarked. “Everything worked out.”
A Lifelong Passion
Libotte’s journey into photography began in his teenage years after moving from the UK to Australia in 1981. He left school at 16 to gain work experience in a photography studio, where he learned the intricacies of capturing, processing, and printing images. “I immediately loved it,” he recalled, eventually setting up a darkroom in his own home to further hone his skills.
Despite a hiatus to pursue a career as a jazz musician, Libotte returned to photography in his 50s, drawn back by the medium’s unique ability to capture life’s “beautiful dance.” He acknowledges that his methods can raise eyebrows, particularly when he’s lying on the ground with a camera. “When you first do it, you feel the judgement of others,” he admitted. “But then I see it as an opportunity to let go of that and to be free.”
The Art of Mindfulness
For Libotte, photography is akin to a form of meditation. “Spending quiet time with yourself is a very meditative and reflective time,” he said, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness for mental health. “I’m in the present moment and I’m really giving things my 100 per cent attention.”
Libotte encourages others to embrace creativity, despite the potential challenges. “All you need then is the courage to follow through with the idea … and commit to it,” he advised. “Just go with what you feel inside is the right thing to do.”
Implications and Future Directions
The Wanderland collection not only captures the imagination but also serves as a reminder of the transformative power of perspective. As audiences engage with Libotte’s work at the Head On Photo Festival, they are invited to reconsider their own views of the mundane and to find magic in the everyday.
Looking ahead, Libotte hopes to continue exploring new techniques and perspectives, further pushing the boundaries of traditional photography. His work stands as a testament to the enduring allure of seeing the world through a different lens, a practice that promises to inspire both seasoned photographers and curious onlookers alike.
