“Human Presence”, a photography exhibition organised by Halftone – Macau Photographic Association, opened at CREATIVE MACAU on Sunday and will conclude on May 5, showcasing works that explore identity, community and cultural expression.
Established in 2021, Halftone - Macau Photographic Association brings together photographers living in Macau or Portugal.
The exhibition features works by 14 members – Carmen Serejo, Cristiana Figueiredo, Elói Scarva, Francisco Ricarte, Henry Chao Kai Hang, Inela Kovačević, João Palla, João Rato, João Van-Zelst, Jorge Veiga Alves, José Neves, José Sales Marques, Miguel Quental, and Sara Augusto.
Through a wide range of photographic styles, the artists present their interpretations of the theme “Human Presence”, examining how individuals exist within diverse social and cultural contexts. The works explore both the individuality of the human figure and the relationships between people and their surroundings, including communities, environments, and urban landscapes.
The exhibition spans a broad visual and aesthetic spectrum, incorporating traditional, contemporary and conceptual photography. Both black-and-white and colour works are on display, reflecting the diversity of artistic approaches and perspectives within the group.
Some of the photos show a single focused colour in conjunction with black-and-white. One example is an exhibit of 10 photos featuring hands, titled “Tactile narratives” by Palla, in which two of the 10 photos feature a focused colour of the skin.
Another exhibit includes “Heterotopia” by Scarva. Heterotopia is a concept referring to “other spaces” – real, physical locations that exist outside normal social spaces, acting as counter-sites or mirrors that invert, challenge, or isolate conventional spaces. The photos include farmers working in a mist, and an individual standing in front of a tree.
Collectively, the pieces highlight how human presence shapes societies and cultural identities. From intimate portrayals of individuals to wider depictions of social spaces, the exhibition encourages audiences to reflect on the many ways people contribute to shared heritage and collective memory.
According to the event’s information board, the exhibition is hosted with the support of Creative Macau, providing a platform for local and international photographers to present their work to the public.
Running through May 5, the exhibits are on display at the CREATIVE MACAU gallery on the ground floor of the Macau Cultural Centre (CCM) in Nape with free admission between Monday and Saturday, between 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.
Photos: Khalel Vallo
