PIBE Magazine Presents: Photo London 2023 at Somerset House

During our visit to Photo London on the exclusive Preview Day, PIBE Magazine had the opportunity to immerse ourselves in the remarkable world of photography. The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as art enthusiasts, collectors, and industry professionals gathered at Somerset House to witness the unveiling of this year's exceptional exhibitions.

The moment we stepped into the venue, it was evident that Photo London had curated a truly exceptional showcase. The exhibition space was a visual feast, presenting 125 exhibitors from 56 cities worldwide. The diversity and quality of the works on display were awe-inspiring, reflecting the global scope of contemporary photography.

One of the standout exhibitions was the highly anticipated ‘Martin Parr: Recent Works’  featuring the iconic Martin Parr. As we entered the space, we were immediately drawn into Parr's world, with his signature style capturing the essence of British culture and society. His recent works, displayed alongside the immersive installation "Beach Therapy" and the intriguing photo deckchairs, offered a multi-dimensional experience that engaged both our senses and emotions.

Exploring the group show 'Writing her own Script. Women Photographers from the Hyman Collection' was a captivating journey through the achievements of pioneering female photographers in the UK. The exhibition beautifully highlighted the immense talent and contributions of women photographers over the past century. From intimate portraits to thought-provoking social commentaries, the images on display celebrated the strength, creativity, and resilience of these remarkable artists.

The 'Fotografía Maroma' exhibition transported us to the magical landscapes of the Rivera Maya in Mexico. Curated by Patricia Conde and Fariba Farshad, this collection showcased the distinct perspectives of Mexican photographers Patricia Lagarde, Ilán Rabchinskey, Javier Hinojosa, and Margot Kalach. Their imagery expertly captured the unique allure and cultural richness of this region, transporting us through time and space.

Throughout our exploration of the fair, we encountered an impressive range of works spanning various genres, styles, and eras. From prints by recently deceased legends such as Fan Ho, Susan Hiller, Peter Lindbergh, Chris Killip, Jürgen Schadeberg, and William Klein, to the creations of living luminaries like Sonia Boyce, Edward Burtynsky, Thomas Demand, Nan Goldin, Sebastião Salgado, and Thomas Struth, every corner of Photo London showcased exceptional talent and artistic vision.

The Discovery section was a particular highlight, offering a platform for emerging photographers and galleries to showcase their fresh and innovative perspectives. The inclusion of works incorporating AI technology demonstrated the ever-evolving nature of the medium and its capacity for pushing artistic boundaries.

Beyond the exhibitions, the fair embraced its role as a catalyst for social change with the 'I MATTER' pavilion project. Presented by the non-profit organization CASE Art Fund, this outdoor photographic exhibition shed light on the critical issue of children's human rights. The powerful images served as a poignant reminder of the importance of advocacy and the transformative potential of art.

As we concluded our visit to Photo London on the Preview Day, we were left with a profound appreciation for the transformative power of photography. The fair succeeded in presenting a diverse and thought-provoking selection of works that highlighted the past, present, and future of the medium. We departed Somerset House inspired and eager to share the incredible experiences and captivating images we encountered with our readers at PIBE Magazine.

Words / Lucas Pontidas

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