Photography exhibition puts CDU research under the lens

From the highest peak in western Europe to fibers smaller than the eye can see, Charles Darwin University's (CDU) biennial photography competition and exhibition is back and zooming in on the world of research. 

Photo Synthesis: CDU's Research through the Lens showcases the visual side of research at the University across all faculties and disciplines. 

Academics were invited to submit photographs snapped while conducting research over the past two years since the previous competition, with a panel of expert judges selecting the top 20 images. 

These images are now on display in an exhibition at the Midpul Art Gallery at CDU's Danala | Education and Community Precinct in Darwin city, and in an online gallery.

Voting is also open for the public to select their favourite photographs. The entrants of the top three most voted for images will receive a credit to put towards their research. 

Among the shortlisted entries is A Honeycomb Woven from Nanofibers by Pranta Barua from CDU's Faculty of Science and Technology. It depicts a web of titanium dioxide nanofibres as seen through a Scanning Electron Microscope.

Washing machines for spare parts at Kalka, APY Lands by Associate Professor Liam Grealy, from the Menzies School of Health Research, is a striking scene of discarded washing machines on the ancient soil of this sparsely populated region. 

Dr Chrystie Watson, who is from the Faculty of Arts and Society, also made the top 20 with a photo of Mont Blanc, the highest peak in western Europe as part of her research into the impacts of mountaineering activities. 

CDU Deputy Vice-Chancellor Research and Community Connection Professor Steve Rogers was thrilled for the community to get a glimpse into the visual world of research. 

“This initiative is inviting the public to see academia through a unique, compelling lens,” Professor Rogers said. 

“We often think of research as just data and publications, but these photographs tell the stories behind these numbers and words. 

“We can see through the eyes of our academics and learn about their journeys to collecting information, the places they visit in pursuit of knowledge and what inspires their work.”

The exhibition at the CDU Midpul Art Gallery is open from April 17 to May 9. 

Voting is open from April 17 to May 5. View and vote for your favourite online or in person at the exhibition. 

The Midpul Art Gallery’s opening hours are Wednesday to Friday from 10am to 4pm, and on Saturday from 10am to 1pm.