Within Sight – Photographs by Paul Lambeth

‘Within Sight’ is an ongoing series by Paul Lambeth, emerging from a practice of slow, attentive walking. Observing transient patterns where light, form, and natural processes converge, Lambeth records quiet instances of flux – refraction on wet stone, traces of erosion, the advance of flora. Through this slow, reflective process he has created a highly personal record of visual phenomena, building his own archive of specific sites, usually close to home.

Lambeth’s approach recalls an early influence from American photographer Edward Weston whose attention to “the thing itself” reinforced his interest in the intrinsic qualities of subjects. Grounded in abstraction, the series invites a pause from interpretation, beyond the immediate context of the natural world and its cycling between collapse and renewal. Lambeth writes, “I am particularly drawn to the ephemeral qualities of light and form, where reframing the recognisable creates opportunities to pause and reconsider.” The series evokes an essence of time and place that exists ineffably beyond subject, context and interpretation.

Lambeth’s photography practice is underpinned by decades of study, observation, and close engagement with local environments. He completed studies in Photography at Prahran College and a Research Masters at the University of Ballarat (now Federation University). Throughout his career as a photographer, educationalist, and festival director, he has maintained a creative visual arts practice through selective exhibitions and publications.

For information about the artist: paullambeth.com

A Ballarat International Foto Biennale Open Program exhibition.

Image: Paul Lambeth, ‘Within Sight #2’ 2025, 29.7 x 21 cm (detail), giclee print on Hahnemuhle Photo Rag