Photival

Overview

We all know that there are many contributing factors to the social, economic and environmental issues facing us today, but could something as simple as photography influence our perspective on these issues? Demi Heath and the team working on the 2019 Photival Festival certainly think so.

Held from May 4 to 26, Photival is made up of different free exhibitions as well as many relevant events, workshops and conversations. More than just a pretty picture, this festival is centred around documentary photography from a range of local photographers. Photival focuses on creating change through art and challenging our reaction to local and international issues. Some exhibitions are linked with charities and activist groups to help promote and support the message behind the photography.

The mastermind behind it all, Demi Heath, founded Photival in 2016 and successfully manages the festival and curates the photographers work as well as working closely with the galleries and social justice groups involved.

Located across Wellington, you can find the Photival Festival in galleries such as Flux, Photospace and The New Zealand Portrait Gallery (see full list of locations ​here​). Dare to be challenged, step out of your comfort zone and you might be surprised how life captured through a lens can influence you.