Top Photographers Unite to Support Colleague’s Cancer Battle

A unique photography exhibition titled Light+Shade will soon launch in Auckland, showcasing the works of prominent photographers to support their colleague, Jason Oxenham, in his ongoing battle against cancer. The exhibition features contributions from 32 photojournalists and aims to raise funds for Oxenham’s medical treatment.

Oxenham, who has faced more than five years of fighting multiple myeloma, recently traveled to Shanghai for CAR-T therapy. After exhausting local treatment options, he chose this alternative, which has resulted in positive medical outcomes. Nevertheless, Oxenham emphasizes the need for continued fundraising efforts. “I took the option recently to fly to Shanghai for CAR-T therapy,” he explained. “I’m home from China and the [medical] numbers are looking very positive. But I still have fundraising to do.”

Photographers Come Together for a Cause

With a career spanning three decades, Oxenham reached out to his extensive network of photographers to gather their support for this cause. “I asked my colleagues to donate a few images each,” he said. The response was overwhelming, leading to the selection of 70 framed images from the participating photographers, including notable figures such as Andrew Cornaga, a celebrated photographer known for his compelling sports imagery.

The exhibition will feature a variety of visual narratives, including a stunning photograph taken by Cornaga of children playing football in Daveyton township, near Johannesburg, captured during the lead-up to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Oxenham highlighted that the event would display the best of local photojournalism, with works by eight winners of the Voyager Media Awards’ Photograph of the Year title, collectively holding 17 awards.

Details of the Exhibition

The framed images will be available for purchase, with permissions granted by the respective news media outlets and agencies involved, such as Stuff, NZME, Getty Images, and Photosport. “All those taking part were chosen because they’re friends willing to help in an hour of need,” Oxenham noted.

In addition to the main exhibition, Oxenham will present a personal photo essay titled Postcards from China, featuring 12 images taken during his treatment in Shanghai. This intimate collection aims to connect viewers with his journey and experiences while undergoing medical care.

The Light+Shade exhibition will take place from September 5 to September 14, 2024, at Gallery 154, located on Level 2, 154 Queen Street, Auckland’s CBD. The exhibition will be open Monday to Friday from 12:00 to 18:00 and Saturday to Sunday from 10:00 to 18:00. Entry is free, and both framed and unframed prints will be available for sale. More information can be found at www.oxenhamphoto.com.

This exhibition not only highlights the talent and generosity of New Zealand’s photojournalists but also serves as a poignant reminder of the power of community support in challenging times.