Ricky Maynard is an Australian Aboriginal photographer who has made a significant impact in the world of contemporary photography. Born in 1953 in Flinders Island, Tasmania, Maynard is a descendant of the Trawlwoolway people of North Eastern Tasmania. He grew up in the Launceston area of Tasmania, where he was exposed to the social and political issues that would later shape his photographic practice.
Maynard’s interest in photography began in the late 1980s, and he started taking photographs while working as a prison officer. In 1993, he enrolled in a photography course at the Tasmanian School of Art, where he developed his skills and honed his artistic vision. Since then, he has become renowned for his powerful and thought-provoking images that explore the complexities of Aboriginal identity, culture, and history.
One of Maynard’s most significant photographic projects is “Portrait of a Distant Land,” a series of portraits that he started in the early 2000s. This series captures the faces of Aboriginal people from all over Australia, highlighting the diversity and richness of Aboriginal culture. Maynard’s portraits are intimate and striking, revealing the resilience, strength, and beauty of his subjects.
Maynard has also produced a number of other notable photographic series, including “Inside,” which documents the conditions of Aboriginal people incarcerated in Tasmanian prisons, and “No More Than What You See,” which explores the ongoing impact of colonialism on Aboriginal communities. In both of these series, Maynard’s images are raw and honest, giving voice to the often-overlooked experiences of Aboriginal people in Australia.
In addition to his photography, Maynard is also a filmmaker and has produced several award-winning documentaries, including “The Moonbird” and “Manganinnie.” His films, like his photography, are concerned with the representation of Aboriginal people and culture, and they challenge mainstream perceptions and stereotypes.
Maynard’s work has been exhibited in galleries and museums around the world, and he has won numerous awards and accolades for his contributions to contemporary photography and filmmaking. His photographs and films continue to inspire and provoke audiences, reminding us of the ongoing struggles and triumphs of Aboriginal people in Australia.
In conclusion, Ricky Maynard is an important figure in the world of contemporary photography, known for his striking and thought-provoking images that explore the complexities of Aboriginal identity, culture, and history. Through his work, he has given voice to the often-overlooked experiences of Aboriginal people in Australia and has challenged mainstream perceptions and stereotypes. Maynard’s legacy as an artist and advocate for Aboriginal rights will undoubtedly continue to shape the Australian art world for generations to come.