Sam Wright and Emma Blau in conversation: Pillar to Post

10th December 2024

Photographer Sam Wright explores his Irish Traveller heritage in Pillar to Post, a contemporary portrait of Traveller and Romani Gypsy communities across the UK and Ireland. Over two years, Wright attended eight fairs, creating an honest depiction of tradition, modernity, and resilience, challenging stigmatising media portrayals of these groups. He will be joined in conversation by Emma Blau, award-winning photographic artist and curator, to discuss the vibrant culture and stories behind this endangered way of life.

Speakers

Sam Wright is a Sheffield-born photographer whose passion for storytelling began with capturing D.I.Y punk gigs in pub basements. His work focuses on creating connections with people and places, documenting overlooked beauty with stylised, colourful, and considered photography. Wright’s projects, both personal and commissioned, centre around natural and recreated light and have been recognised by awards and galleries such as the NPG, D&AD Awards, Lürzer’s Archive, Creative Review, It’s Nice That, Palm Studios, and The AOP Awards.

Emma Blau has been at the forefront of visual culture her entire life. As a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts, an award-winning photographic artist with work in the National Portrait Gallery, London, and an exhibition curator, gallerist, public speaker, lecturer, vintage clothes collector, and singer, Emma brings a multi-faceted perspective to every conversation. Her belief in the memorable stories found in the visual world continues to inspire her diverse career.