The Chau Chak Wing Museum in Sydney is currently showcasing “Student Life: Max Dupain at the University of Sydney,” an exhibition that offers a captivating glimpse into the university’s vibrant student culture in the early 1950s. This collection highlights the work of Max Dupain (1911–1992), one of Australia’s most esteemed modernist photographers.
In the post-war years, the University of Sydney experienced significant changes, including an influx of refugees, women, and international students, particularly from Asia under the Colombo Plan. Dupain’s photography documents this transformation, combining formal architectural settings with candid depictions of student life. Notably, his images of student floats from events like the 1954 Petrov Affair and anti-bomb demonstrations provide a unique perspective on the era’s socio-political climate.
Exhibition Details
- Dates: 9 August 2024 – 2 February 2026
- Hours: Monday to Friday: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm; Saturday and Sunday: 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm
- Location: Level 4, Chau Chak Wing Museum, University Place, Camperdown, NSW
- Admission: Free
