Many Voices, One Nation 2

Many Voices, One Nation 2 is an exhibition featuring the work of twelve talented photographers working in Wales today. The exhibition captures the richness and diversity of the nation’s geography, culture and society, at a time of great uncertainty and upheaval. We anticipate that the exhibition will be opening at Ffotogallery in early November (public health guidance permitting), with precise dates to be announced soon.

The global pandemic has shown the best and worst of modern society. It brought us together in adversity and inspired acts of generosity towards our neighbours. It also exposed deep-seated economic divisions and social inequalities. In separating people from their workplaces, family and friends, it revealed the gulf between those who were able to stay home close to their loved ones, and those who are alone and have been left even more isolated. As one part of society sheltered in comfortable homes and adjusted to the realities of homeworking, many others continue to live in cramped conditions or are homeless. Essential workers have been exposed to increased risks in keeping services up and running, whilst many people are facing the prospect of losing their livelihoods as the economy continues to crash. Our lives have been disrupted on a scale that most people have never witnessed.

As we emerge from lockdown, Ffotogallery re-opens its doors with an exhibition that presents a more optimistic view of our nation’s future. We invited photography professionals from around Wales to nominate photographers, students and artists whose work offers insights into contemporary life, and represents the breadth of Welsh talent that deserves wider exposure. Twelve artists were selected from across Wales, reflecting a wide range of subjects and different approaches to photography.

Through the exhibition and in Ffotogallery’s future work, we want to make sure that we value the role people from all parts of our society play in creating a vibrant Wales. We know that the arts in Wales will be stronger, more exciting and relevant to more people if we embrace diversity. We actively encourage public participation and audience engagement with the issues arising from the exhibition.

We’re pleased to announce that the following artists have been selected for this second edition of Many Voices, One Nation:

Abby Poulson, Antonia Osuji, Cynthia Sitei, Ethan Beswick, Jack Osborne, Jo Haycock, John Manley, Kaz Alexander, Lucy Purrington, Matthew Eynon, Mohamed Hassan and Robert Law.

Many Voices, One Nation began life as a touring exhibition developed as a collaboration between Ffotogallery and the Senedd/Welsh Parliament, which marked 20 years of devolution in Wales.