Stories from Life – Veronique Vial & Robert McGrath

Join photographers Veronique Vial and Robert McGrath for a powerful dual presentation exploring urgent stories of environmental conservation and cultural reconnection through their respective projects, Vaquita and ReConnect, in a compelling evening of visual storytelling. This event brings together two distinct narratives—one from the endangered waters of Mexico, the other from the healing heart of Redfern, Sydney. Through their lenses, Vial and McGrath explore themes of survival, identity, and resilience in ways that are both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.

Robert McGrath opens with ReConnect, a portrait series of First Nations women participating in the Gullinyjas healing program in Redfern. These women reclaim their cultural identities through storytelling and visual expression. McGrath’s portraits blend traditional studio photography with AI-generated backgrounds that evoke each subject’s connection to country, spirit, and self. The result is a vibrant showcase of “dreaming” through digital artistry.

Following Robert, Veronique Vial presents Vaquita, a gripping artwork that follows environmental activists working alongside the Mexican Navy to protect the world’s rarest marine mammal, the Vaquita porpoise. With fewer than 13 individuals left, the species teeters on the brink of extinction, caught in the crossfire of illegal fishing and cartel activity. Vial’s images capture the urgency and danger of this conservation effort, offering a rare glimpse into the battle for preservation. Her work, celebrated in publications and galleries worldwide, brings a much needed attention to this precious species.

Together, these presentations promise an evening of insight, inspiration, and unforgettable imagery. Don’t miss this opportunity to engage with two artists whose work speaks to the heart of life’s most urgent stories.