Max Dupain (1911-1992)

Max Dupain (1911–1992) was an influential Australian modernist photographer. Born in Sydney, he began his career in the 1930s and established his own studio in 1934. His work is characterized by its sharp focus, bold compositions, and dramatic use of light, a stark departure from the prevailing Pictorialist style. Throughout his career, he specialized in various genres, including portraiture, advertising, industrial, and architectural photography. Dupain is widely known for his iconic photograph, “Sunbaker,” taken in 1937, which became a celebrated image in Australian culture. His extensive body of work is preserved in major collections, including the National Gallery of Australia, and he was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in 1982 and a Companion of the Order of Australia (AC) in 1992.