Marking an inaugural solo show in Australia, YEARBOOK by Ryan McGinley will run at Shepparton Art Museum (SAM) from 1 March to 14 July 2024. McGinley is a New York-based photographer who gained recognition for his early work blending skateboard and graffiti culture with a focus on queer identities. At just age 25, he became the youngest artist to have a solo show at the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York City (NYC), and he has had his photographs shape style and culture publications around the world.
YEARBOOK will transform SAM into a vibrant visual tapestry, featuring over seven hundred vinyl-printed studio portraits of New York City creatives. Each portrait, adorning every inch of the gallery walls, captures the essence of McGinley’s distinctive style – a fusion of bold colours and fleeting moments. First shown in 2009 in New York City, this unique presentation has since graced major international institutions, adapting its format to each gallery’s space.
“There’s a synergy between all the images that make up YEARBOOK; the constellation of hundreds of fleeting moments captured on camera share a timeless quality that is at the same time highly contemporary,” says McGinley on the enduring quality that defines YEARBOOK.
To mark the official opening on 9 March, McGinley will be present at SAM, offering a free artist talk. The event, a highlight of PHOTO 2024’s regional weekend, will feature opening remarks from Justine Dalla Riva, CEO of Victorian Pride Centre.
For SAM CEO Melinda Martin, there is excitement about bringing this major exhibition to Shepparton, “We’re thrilled to be premiering Ryan McGinley’s work to an Australian audience. We’re honoured to have him join us to celebrate this presentation of YEARBOOK in March during his brief visit to Australia.”
His evolution from documentary-style to orchestrated creative vision has left an indelible mark on visual culture.
YEARBOOK will grace SAM until 14 July 2024, with free entry. For those eager to attend the exhibition opening event on 9 March, registration is available on the SAM website here.
Established in 2018, PHOTO Australia hosts a biennale in Melbourne and Regional Victoria, addressing contemporary issues through free exhibitions, outdoor displays, artist commissions, talks, and workshops.
PHOTO 2024, themed ‘The Future Is Shaped by Those Who Can See It,’ run from 1–24 March.