Michelle Sank's Artist Talk at the Martin Parr Foundation
Bill Outside his house. From Burnthouse Lane by Michelle Sank
We’re thrilled to announce Michelle Sank’s Artist Talk on 16th December at the Martin Parr Foundation, where she discusses her latest, captivating series, Burnthouse Lane.
Children enjoying first day of Eid, Playing Fields. From Burnhthouse Lane by Michelle Sank
Published earlier this year by Dewi Lewis Publishing, Burnthouse Lane is the result of Michelle’s deep, long-term exploration of the historic Burnthouse Lane estate in Exeter, Devon. Originally developed in the 1920s to rehouse families from impoverished neighborhoods, the estate has maintained its identity as a council estate despite shifts in ownership since Thatcher’s Right to Buy scheme in the 1980s. Today, the estate’s isolated layout and maze-like lanes foster a uniquely close-knit and resilient community. Although often labeled as a “no-go” area, Michelle’s work captures the vibrant positivity and diversity of this neighbourhood, where residents’ personal touches on their homes reveal an inspiring tapestry of individuality.
In addition to Burnthouse Lane, Michelle will talk about her award-winning series Ballade, offering insight into the shared methodologies and themes that connect both works. Images from Ballade have been exhibited at The Taylor Wessing Prize 2023, won the Open Portrait Award at the Sony World Photography Awards 2024, and received honorable mentions at the 24th Julia Margaret Cameron Award.
Ballade is a poetic tribute to Michelle’s birthplace, Cape Town. During her return to South Africa, she was struck by the enduring essence of public spaces—beaches, walkways, pools, and green areas—that, while structurally unchanged, have blossomed into vibrant arenas of cultural and social diversity in post-Apartheid South Africa. Through her lens, these spaces reveal the dynamic and evolving spirit of Cape Town’s communities.
Zhara. From Ballade by Michelle Sank
In the meantime, nark your calendars for the Opening Event of Michelle Sank’s much anticipated solo exhibition of Ballade on 8th February at Elliott Gallery. Stay tuned for more details!