Bestiarium

“See, they’re currently in alien terrain, surrounded by millions of the most vicious creatures on the planet. Humans”.
Today, with the pandemic and climate crisis, humanity’s relationship with animals has never been more precarious. We exploit them, form relationships with them, consume them, imitate them, farm, hunt and enslave them. We also admire and assign them symbolic meaning and mythological importance. We project the best of humanity upon them, while sometimes we, the humans, are the true beasts.
Bestiarium explores the intricate nature and boundary between man and beast and feeds our subconscious animal instincts. The series navigates the psychological inclinations for anthropomorphism and brings out the beasts that populate our dreams, imaginations and nightmares.
This exhibition is outdoors. Please check what COVID-19 restrictions are in place before you visit.
In a world where we face a constant deluge of throwaway imagery, Burn My Eye seeks to provide thoughtful, informed photographic consideration of our circumstances. We offer a way to see beyond superficiality and pretension, to burn through the facade and reveal something of ourselves and our lives.
Since its establishment in 2011, Burn My Eye has been a collective striving together, pushing each other photographically. Members have come and gone, but the vision presented under the BME banner has become renowned for quality and constantly propelling photographic possibilities in new and exciting directions. The work of BME and its members has been featured in many major international exhibitions, photo books, publications, awards, curations, and photo festivals.
Submit your work to be considered for solo or group exhibitions in Head On Photo Festival. The last day to submit work is Sunday, 23 March.
Work up close with two of Australia’s pre-eminent photographers, explore regional Australia from a unique viewpoint, meet new people and develop your photographic practice!