Murtha and Ryniewicz Art Show Explores Happiness in Northeast England

The Baltic gallery in Gateshead is presenting "Close to Home," an exhibition that juxtaposes the photographic work of Tish Murtha with a film by Kuba Ryniewicz. Murtha's "Youth Unemployment" series, captured in Newcastle between 1979 and 1981, features young men in candid moments, often with cigarettes and shared jokes. Ryniewicz's accompanying film interviews present-day Newcastle residents about what brings them happiness, with common themes of sunshine, family, and friends emerging. Despite a 40-year temporal gap, both artists' works explore the universal human drive for joy and connection, irrespective of circumstances. The exhibition highlights their shared ability to document their communities with raw, authentic portrayals, stemming from their immersion within those environments. Both Murtha and Ryniewicz are recognized for their unflinching depiction of real moments, a testament to their deep engagement with their subjects and locales. The "Close to Home" exhibition at the Baltic brings these two artists together, emphasizing their parallel artistic approaches and shared focus on the residents of Newcastle.