Cintia Barroso Alexander – Portrats Aus Afrika

Framed by an azure sky, Cintia Barroso Alexander’s photos are large in scale but intimate in appeal.

The Brazilian photographer travelled to Ethiopia and her work illustrates a culture alien to a modern audience. However, in this skilful artist’s hands the different becomes familiar and the ancient, contemporary.

These portraits of tribal people are carefully structured, powerful and gentle. The browns and blues of the African plains are their awe inspiring background and the reflections created by the introduction of a mirror speak to a shared humanity.

In one image, a young girl’s face is repeated in a red rimmed glass, her stoic gaze is haunting. Behind her, the black trees of her native land are echoed in the water of a lake. The composition is striking and the effect is one of overwhelming beauty.

Portrats Aus Afrika is an exhibition which appeals to the heart with its celebration of nature and search for unity in a divided world. (LR)

Until Jan 25, 3/138 Darlinghurst Rd, Darlinghurst, free, 8084 7541, blackeyegallery.com.au