Overview
Photographer Ilan Wittenberg's key objective for Bare Truth was to counter-balance the general portrayal of men being strong, physically and emotionally. "I want to raise awareness; give men the freedom to express their feelings and connect with their emotions. This fresh look at men is an eye-opening opportunity to see real people without the 'shield' of clothes. The project simply reminds us of how fragile we are."
The resulting monochrome portraits are a showcase of humble, courageous and vulnerable men, all outside their comfort zone and stripped down to the waist. More than 100 unapologetic images make up the exhibition, with men from all walks of life staring directly down the barrel.
The project has proved incredibly successful for Wittenberg, who took out the Portrait Classic category of the 2015 Iris Awards as well as the sought after 2015 Auckland Photographer of the Year.
As well as being part of Sydney's Head On Photo Festival, Bare Truth is part of the Auckland Festival of Photography's 2016 Signature Programme. An Artist Talk with Ilan Wittenberg will take place on Sunday 12 June, 2pm.