Library exhibition celebrates The Sunrise Swimmers of Merewether Ocean Baths

Merewether Ocean Baths is a favourite spot for Novocastrians, but few of us have had the chance or inclination to see it bathed in the magical light of dawn, until now.

Local photographer and storyteller Brydie Piaf has combined her love of the ocean with her unique documentary eye to create an extraordinary book and exhibition about people who greet the sea before the sun each day.

The Sunrise Swimmers of Merewether Ocean Baths is a collection of portraits, seascapes and stories documenting the regular early morning swimmers of Newcastle's iconic Merewether Ocean Baths. The Sunrise Swimmers is a celebration of these people, and of the saltwater life.

The exhibition is on from 24 February to 17 April 2018 in the Local History Lounge, War Memorial Cultural Centre, Laman Street, Newcastle. It is hosted in partnership with Newcastle Region Library as part of its program to highlight Newcastle stories.

Brydie Piaf's work has been featured in print, online and is held in private collections. As a freelance photographer and writer now calling Newcastle home, she has the opportunity to explore many of the city's favourite ocean pools and beaches while indulging in her 'mermaid tendencies'.

"With a love for the human story and those tiny ordinary moments that make up our day, story telling and documentary photography was a natural place for me to fall into," said Ms Piaf.

"Capturing the moment as it is felt, whether big or small, combined with a few written words is a favourite way to do just that. With a combination of trust, loves of light, and a good strong coffee, connections are made and stories are told."

The Sunrise Swimmers of Merewether Ocean Baths is Ms Piaf's first solo exhibition and book. She lives with her partner and three children, who, she said "have all learnt it’s quicker just to say yes to a photo."

Meet the Artist events

Meet photographer and storyteller Brydie Piaf for a chat about her work documenting The Sunrise Swimmers of Merewether Ocean Baths.

Two sessions: 11am-12pm, Saturday 3 March and Friday 9 March
Local History Lounge, second floor, War Memorial Cultural Centre, Laman Street

Community event - Sunrise swim

Come be a part of the Merewether Ocean Baths sunrise and sea loving community by celebrating the start of the day with a swim. No bookings required for this free event, just rock up in your togs!

6.30am, Saturday 17 March, Merewether Ocean Baths

For more information about the artist:
www.brydiepiaf.com
Instagram @brydiepiaf #thesunriseswimmers

Image above: Towel Flick 2017 by Brydie Piaf