This week we are visiting two important but very different shows: Picture Paradise at the NGA and  the ACMP exhibition at the Showcase gallery.  The former is a large survey exhibition of photography "in our region" from 1840-1940. The latter is a sample of "the best" of members  of ACMP.   This one by Tim Hixson was one of my favourites.

As you look at Picture Paradise think of the historical and social context of the production of these photographs - that is, the height of Colonialism. How is "the other" being presented through the mostly white mostly male lens of the time? Do you get a sense of these places being exotic and welcoming?  Also, have a good look at the different early photographic processes.