The Tracksuits of St Marys

Taking the ordinary to the extraordinary - one of the beautiful photos taken by Harold David.

Project Summary

Taking its inspiration from the Black Power salute at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, the Tracksuits of St Marys exhibition, community development and international cultural exchange project celebrated the political and social history (and importance) of the ‘tracksuit’. Inspired by the people of St Marys - Curator Victoria Harbutt and Sydney fashion and art photographer, Harold David worked in the St Marys community for two years to mount “tracksuit events” and photographic sessions. Over 1,000 portraits were taken, and from these a collection of portraits and actual garments were selected for exhibition at the Penrith Regional Gallery (and exhibitions at two venues in Japan). The exhibition, a celebration of community and garment, was a dynamic installation of photographic portraits; community ‘Hero’ tracksuits and tracksuits belonging to Australian sport, dance, music, television and theatre identities – including the late and great Australian Olympic runner Peter Norman (Mexico City 1968).

Photos

    • Taking the ordinary to the extraordinary - one of the beautiful photos taken by Harold David.

      Taking the ordinary to the extraordinary - one of the beautiful photos taken by Harold David.

    • Taking the ordinary to the extraordinary - one of the beautiful photos taken by Harold David.

      Taking the ordinary to the extraordinary - one of the beautiful photos taken by Harold David.

    • Taking the ordinary to the extraordinary - one of the beautiful photos taken by Harold David.

      Taking the ordinary to the extraordinary - one of the beautiful photos taken by Harold David.

    • An installation of 'Tracksuits of St Marys' from the Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest.

      An installation of 'Tracksuits of St Marys' from the Penrith Regional Gallery & The Lewers Bequest.

Project Information

Council
Penrith City Council
Cultural Officer
Victoria Harbutt
Programs Projects and Partnerships
Division C
Other Penrith Council Projects
Neighbourhood Stories (working title): Parkour and Urban Movement Workshops
PP&VA - Cultural Entity Integration
Penrith Regional Gallery Capital Works and Heritage Conservation Project
International Battle of the Choirs
Inventing Elena
KNOCKOUT
Sensory Tours
Cultural Awards 2008 Winners Announced

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