After initially cutting his teeth making music videos, Edward Goldner has been working as a commercial cinematographer for the past decade. He began photography as a side interest, but has quickly found an audience for his medium format film images, that draw upon the visual language of cinema to create evocative and immersive scenes. He describes photography as an opportunity to ‘let go of the infrastructure and technical side of work’, but also a chance to bring the motion of video to his still images.

As an eager traveller, keen to move away from tourist locations, Edward is frequently scouting out new destinations as a way to provide ‘a window into a place that not many people get to see.’ His latest photography series, Nājī features portraits taken in remote areas of Mauritania, north-west Africa. These captivating images capture a sense of isolation, and the harsh natural environment, alongside the vibrancy of the local culture and the energy and resilience of residents.

Visiting Mauritania during Ramadan was a profound experience for Edward, as the period of fasting meant the streets were unusually quiet. Due to his inability to speak the local language, much of his month-long trip was spent in near meditative silence – but once Ed learnt some keywords and phrases, he was able to communicate with his subjects in a basic way, and make them feel comfortable.

The title of the exhibition, Nājī, is inspired by the name of the local guide Ed spent much of his month driving the historic streets of the west-African nation with. Nājī means ‘to survive’, and Ed’s photography series captures the strength of the local community.

These mural-size images communicate a distinct sense of place, situating the subjects against the unending sky and sweeping landscapes. Nājī  is being exhibited over four days in Clifton Hill later this month.

Nājī
Thursday October 24th – Sunday October 27th (Opening night event Friday October 25th, 6-9pm)
Stockroom Gallery
355a Wellington Street
Clifton Hill, Victoria