In Conversation: A Photographic Dialogue Between Steve McCurry and Jessie Brinkman Evans

Two diverse perspectives from different generations – born from unique worldly experiences at distinct stages of their careers. One might expect the result of this experiment to be a contrast of style and vision when in fact, the outcome is a dialogue between photographers – an exhibition framed as a ‘conversation’ between two exceptional voices.
 
From August 2nd (Melbourne) and August 8th (Sydney) through the end of October 2025, the Leica Store and Gallery Sydney & Melbourne present a unique photographic dialogue between Steve McCurry and Jessie Brinkman Evans.

Steve McCurry – standing out amongst his peers as one of the most renowned figures in contemporary photography – imparts a diverse collection of works portraying the essence of humanity from all corners of the globe. In response, Jessie Brinkman Evans reveals the enduring culture of a remote Arctic community as they struggle to balance extreme isolation with an unwavering sense of identity.
 
The eighth instalment of twelve exhibitions taking place each month at Leica Galleries across the world, the ‘In Conversation’ series of exhibitions comes to Australia in Melbourne and Sydney, showcasing the coalescence of works by iconic masters with the voices of today’s photographic visionaries. As part of a global initiative, the exhibitions serve to depict twelve dynamic pairings whose work complements, reflects and inspires.
 
Through a comprehensive collection of works from both photographers, ‘In Conversation’ brings together two unique perspectives that move along distinct yet parallel paths. The exhibition doesn’t contrast generations – rather, it reveals two standpoints of seeing and inhabiting the world through photography.
 
As someone who has witnessed the world for more than 40 years, Steve McCurry captures life through evocative compositions with an inimitable colour palette. Jessie Brinkman Evans, by contrast seeks out the unspoken fissures of everyday life, unearthing the emotional layers that permeate just beneath the surface. Together, their work creates a dynamic tension between documentation and interpretive vision.
 
In honour of 100 years since the release of the Leica I, the exhibition is more than a tribute to a landmark camera. It is an invitation to witness the meeting of two distinct yet deeply authentic photographic voices who question, respect and illuminate each other – not seeking similarity, but mutual recognition.
 
In these 100 years, Leica has helped shape the visual record of the human experience. Through its network of galleries, it remains a leading voice in international photographic culture – championing both emerging artists and the legacies of the great masters who came before.
 
‘In Conversation’ is the result of a collaborative journey that epitomises the very spirit of the exhibition. Collaboration lies at the heart of every meaningful connection and true dialogue begins when we genuinely listen. In this sense, Leica is more than just a vehicle for capturing images. It is a witness to time, a keeper of memories and a bridge between generations. It reveals what is most enduring about the world we live in – our humanity.

2 August until end of October
267 Little Collins Street
Melbourne VIC 3000

8 August until end of October
Shops 40-42, Level 2 Queen Victoria Building
455 George Street
Sydney NSW 2000