At Newport, 1952

Photographer Max Dupain (1911 - 1992)

Date1952

Object number00001259

NamePhotograph

MediumSilver gelatin print on paper

DimensionsOverall: 325 x 395 mm
Display dimensions (Frame): 895 x 660 x 45 mm
Mount / Matt size: 866 x 630 mm

ClassificationsPhotographs

Credit LineANMM Collection

Collections

Terms

DescriptionBlack and white photograph by Max Dupain titled 'At Newport, 1952'.HistoryThis photograph by Max Dupain is one of his best known. Taken at Newport Baths on Sydney's northern beaches, it encompasses the "Australianness" that Dupain became known for. A beach lover himself, Dupain shows a natural affinity for the coastal landscape and an intimacy with those swimmers who also embraced it. The central figure in the photograph, the youth climbing down from the pools edge, is Peter Heath, then 14 years old. It is believed that Heath was unaware the image was taken by Dupain until he received a book of Dupain's photographs on his 50th birthday. Heath was gifted a copy of the photograph by Dupain before his death in 1992. SignificanceThis is an iconic image by Australian photographer Max Dupain. Captured at an ocean pool on Sydney's northern beaches, the moment presents four quintessential beach poses: diving, resting, wading and sitting.