The Rhubarb Rhubarb international review…

Was awesome.

I have never seen such quality of photography in one place. I was lucky enough to be a floating reviewer, and as such was able to view amazing work, chat to fascinating people, and get a free lunch (twice!! so much for the free lunch theory :)). I was even allowed in the same room as a few people who would probably like to snap duckrabbit’s neck. That was avoided due to my ninja like use of swapping name tags. I think the bloke from VII might have got beaten up by the lady from the Photographer’s Gallery. Sorry Stephen 😉

I will be making a short piece about the review soon, but for now I can honestly say that the standard of work was absolutely phenomenal. I mean, really beautiful and fascinating. And totally diverse. I have been a bit despondent recently in relation to the standard of work that Ben and I get to see, but at Rhubarb the bar was raised. I really hope that the photographers manage to use the event to move on in new ways, with new people. I’m sure they will. EVERY photographer that I spoke to had had a positive experience. The reviewers were also a truly diverse, experienced, professional and knowledgeable bunch.

I will write more about certain aspects of the event, including points which I found slightly troubling, such as not being quite sure any more whether what I was looking at was real or manipulated. My perspective as a photojournalist and editorial (that was) photographer means I am totally uncomfortable with manipulation within those contexts. Most of the photography was not anywhere near editorial or photojournalism though (sensible these modern snappers), so my discomfort is irrelevant, but I do find it fascinating to watch the integration and acceptance of artifice and visual deception into modern photography.

A picture never lies you know.

But my name tag might.