Firey snaps showcase

Two photographers from Bridgetown have each had work selected to be displayed in the National Portrait Gallery before the pieces embark on a nationwide tour before the end of the year. The pieces are from the Defenders showcase which were photos based on volunteer firefighters from the Bridgetown-Greenbushes area taken by Victoria Baker and Davina Jogi. There were a total of three pieces from the two artists which are featured in the 2021 gallery including Wombat, pictured, centred on the theme of Living Memory. Mrs Baker said being selected to have work featured at such a prestigious level would help show how much effort was put into the works by the photographers. “I guess also anything like (the National Portrait Gallery) it helps your career but it also does wonders for recognition,” she said. Both artists entered into the competition a couple of months ago and were invited to the opening ceremony in Canberra but because of COVID-19 travel restrictions it was cancelled. Mrs Jogi said placement in the National Gallery would spur her on to keep putting her work forward for future awards and showcases. “I think it is good ... to build your confidence because I think that often I think ‘oh I don’t have anything or I have other deadlines I’m not going to enter’,” she said. “What I have learnt over this past year is that you should always throw your hat in the ring.” In all, 79 photos were selected for the collection from 3000 entries, all vying for the National Photographic Portrait prize worth $30,000. This year’s winner was Drought Story by Joel Pratley.