Michael Jalaru Torres is an Indigenous fine art photographer, poet, and media professional hailing from Broome, Western Australia. Born on November 25, 1976, he is a Djugun-Yawuru man with tribal connections to the Gooniyandi/Jabbir Jabbir/Ngarluma peoples. Torres is inspired by the unique landscapes and people of the Kimberley region, which feature prominently in his work. He draws on his own stories and personal history to explore contemporary social and political issues facing Indigenous people.
Torres is a self-taught photographer who was drawn to the visual medium because of its accessibility and the challenge of capturing stories in single images. He regularly experiments with different mediums and is interested in expanding his photography into installations and motion work while pushing the boundaries of conceptual photography. His photography has appeared in exhibitions across the world, including China, Germany, Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, and regional Western Australia.
One of the key features of Torres’ work is conceptual and innovative portraiture, which captures the essence of his subjects and their connection to the land. He also uses abstract landscape photography to explore the relationships between humans and their environment. Torres’ work is deeply personal, drawing on his own experiences and history as an Indigenous Australian.
His photography has been featured in a range of exhibitions, including solo shows at the WA Museum, the Ballarat International Foto Biennale, and the Red Earth Arts Festival in Karratha. He has also participated in group exhibitions at prestigious galleries such as the Incinerator Gallery in Melbourne, the Perth Centre of Photography, and the Kununurra Art Centre.
In addition to his photography, Torres is a poet, and his writing reflects his experiences as an Indigenous Australian. He has also created design and video art, showcasing his versatility as an artist. Torres is a media professional who uses his skills to raise awareness of Indigenous issues and to promote Indigenous art and culture.
Michael Jalaru Torres is not only an accomplished artist but also the founder of the Blak Lens community-made collective of established, emerging, and aspiring Blak photographers and videographers across Australia. This network of creatives uses their art to explore and celebrate the unique cultural heritage, experiences, and perspectives of Indigenous Australians while raising awareness of the ongoing struggles and injustices faced by these communities in the present day.
In conclusion, Michael Jalaru Torres is a talented artist who uses his photography, poetry, design, and video art to explore and celebrate Indigenous Australian culture while raising awareness of the issues faced by Indigenous communities. His work reflects his personal experiences and history, and his dedication to promoting Indigenous art and culture is an inspiration to other artists and creatives.