Photography versus Thatcher: The Photo Co-op Archive prints and objects, 1979 to 1986 - Photofusion’s origin story

Photography versus Thatcher: The Photo Co-op Archive, prints and objects, 1979 to 1986 – Photofusion’s origin story tells the story of the early years of the Photo Co-op, the founding organisation which later grew into Photofusion.

This exhibition features vintage items contributed by the participating photographers from their archives that now form the Photo Co-op Archive at the Martin Parr Foundation in Bristol. Curated by Chris Boot, and in collaboration with the Martin Parr Foundation, Photography versus Thatcher: The Photo Co-op Archive, prints and objects, 1979 to 1986 – Photofusion’s origin story features photographs by Janis Austin, Corry Bevington, Luis Bustamante, Gina Glover, Crispin Hughes, Sarah Saunders, Vicky White, and Sarah Wyld. These include a wide selection of original library photographs used to promote social causes, with objects and documents from the time, and examples of laminated panels from campaign exhibitions.

Seen together for the first time, these archival artefacts reveal the ‘world view’ the Photo Co-op created in photographs – a style of advocacy for progressive causes and, in particular, for the solidarity of women, made for and with the community.

For the first time, Photofusion is collaborating with the Martin Parr Foundation in Bristol. Both organisations work towards supporting emerging and established photographers and strive to make photography engaging and accessible for all. 

Dates: 15th November 2024 to 4th January 2025