Damian Heinisch | 45

45 describes a sequence of image fragments that emphasise and contrast human presence in their physical surroundings. Upon closer examination, the viewer becomes aware that all images are taken through a train window. The photographer’s journey, which takes him from Ukraine to Oslo through present-day Europe, is inspired by train journeys taken by relatives in 1945 and 1978, leading them to death or freedom. At this point in all three journeys, each family member turned 45. The book’s narrative challenges the issue of forced immigration within the boundaries of Europe’s past and present. Eight months after the author’s return in 2013, a new conflict erupted in the Donetsk region, leading to an ongoing war.

‍

‍

The MACK First Book Award is a publishing prize open to artists who have not previously had a book published. The award was established in 2012 to support emerging artists and bodies of work that find a voice through the book form. The award has helped to further the careers of previously unknown and emerging artists, offering both shortlisted artists and winners unique exposure on an international scale.

‍

‍

This year's jury was comprised of:

Jörg Colberg (Writer and professor of photography)

Ellis Jones (Editor-in-Chief, VICE Magazine)

Joanna Piotrowska (Photographer and previous winner of the FBA)

Polly Fleury (Director of Special Projects, Wilson Centre for Photography)

Michael Mack (Publisher of MACK)

‍

‍

Paperback with flap and Japanese fold, printed UV on uncoated stock. The book Includes a large format fold-out poster.

45 by Damian Heinisch will be exhibited at Webber Gallery, London, from November 2020.

‍

Read More