Brutalism by Bike

This 3-session workshop focused on brutalist architecture, led by Canberra visual artist Jordan Stokes, is an exciting opportunity for photography enthusiasts of all levels to explore and capture the beauty of this unique architectural style, combining architecture appreciation with outdoor activity.

The first session, held online, provides a platform for participants to come together and get to know one another, discuss the photos they hope to capture and learn about the history of brutalist style, its origins, and its impact on architecture.

The second session takes a more active approach, with participants embarking on a cycling excursion around the parliamentary triangle in Canberra. The goal is to capture the stunning brutalist design of the High Court and National Gallery of Australia, exploring the city from a different perspective and capturing the beauty of these iconic buildings. With Jordan’s expertise and guidance, participants will have the chance to perfect their photography skills and capture the essence of brutalist architecture.

Finally, the third session, held again online, allows participants to come together to share their photos, with Jordan leading a reflective discussion about the excursion. Participants will choose their favourite images to showcase in PhotoAccess’ online gallery, a lasting testament to their creativity and hard work. This workshop is the perfect opportunity for photographers to deepen their understanding of brutalist architecture, connect with others, and showcase their skills to a wider audience. So come join along and capture the beauty of brutalism through your lens!

Session One, Tuesday May 2nd, 7-8pm AEDT on Zoom

• Meeting on Zoom, getting to know the group
• Introduction to brutalist architecture and Jordan’s work
• Learning and understanding creative approaches to photographing architecture
• Seeing examples and analysing images

Session Two, Saturday May 6th, 2:30-5:30pm, Bike Excursion

• Convening at PhotoAccess
• Biking from PhotoAccess and coming together at the High Court of Australia
• Learning about and photographing the High Court
• Wandering to, learning about and photographing the National Gallery of Australia
• Coming together to talk about the best ways to photograph these buildings
• Biking back to PhotoAccess

Session Three, Tuesday May 16th, 7-8pm AEDT on Zoom

• Meeting on Zoom to discuss the excursion
• Discussion of successes and challenges
• Showcase of photographic results
• Selecting images to be included in the PhotoAccess online gallery

For the workshop excursion on the 6th you’ll need:

• your own digital and/or analogue camera or smartphone,
• at least one charged spare battery or portable power pack,
• memory cards,
• your own bike, helmet, hard-soled enclosed shoes, and bike lock

If you do not have your own bike, you can also look into renting options for bikes or scooters around the PhotoAccess/Parliamentary Triangle area: https://visitcanberra.com.au/articles/how-to-hire-a-bike-in-canberra

You may like to also bring along a tripod or any other equipment and understanding that it will not be possible to charge batteries, etc once the excursion begins and you will need to be able to comfortably carry and ride with your equipment.

Road safety is a crucial aspect of cycling, especially for those participating in this workshop. Please follow all traffic laws, wear appropriate protective gear, be aware of surroundings, and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

It is important to stay visible on the road, maintain a safe distance from other vehicles, and use hand signals to communicate with other drivers. Additionally, always check your bike before heading out to make sure it’s in good working order. By following these basic road safety tips, participants can ensure a fun and safe time undertaking this workshop.

This workshop requires a medium level of fitness and includes on-road bike riding. If you are not a confident cyclist, this workshop may not be for you. Anyone who is breaching these road safety rules before or during the workshop will be asked to leave.

Enrolments for this workshop close at 5pm on Wednesday, April 26th, 2023. As a not-for-profit, our financial margins are narrow and classes require a minimum number of participants to run. In the event that PhotoAccess cancels a workshop, refunds will be paid in full or a transfer allowed free of charge. If a class is postponed, we will endeavour to reschedule at a time convenient to enrolled participants.

PhotoAccess will happily refund or transfer workshop fees up to 7 days prior to the start date of the workshop. If less than 7 days’ notice is given, PhotoAccess can offer a partial refund. Alternatively, enrolment can transfer to another workshop plus a $50 transfer fee. If less than 48 hours are given, no refunds or transfers can be given. Please note that memberships purchased in conjunction with a workshop enrolment are non-refundable. See Terms and Conditions for further details.