James Henry: Parkies of Old Fitzroy

James Henry’s intimate photographic portraits presented on the CCP Night Projection Window—visible on the exterior of the building, 7-nights a week after dark—focus on local Indigenous park users, creating a series that celebrates the Aboriginal history and Parkie identity of Fitzroy, Collingwood and the surrounding areas of our city. Regular occupants of the parks came to refer to themselves as ‘Parkies’, and for a long time they have gathered in this area. It is their meeting place; they come here to share what they have, to feel connected and to tell a story or play a song. Parkies of Old Fitzroy explores the special significance for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities that this locale holds.

James Henry has been working as a photographer since the start of 2010. Starting out freelancing alongside his job as an events organiser and musician, he made the transition across to shooting events. Since then James’ commercial work has become highly in-demand, and has seen him work with a broad range of high-profile clients and businesses. Being a part of the Aboriginal community in Melbourne, James has worked across the country in Aboriginal urban, rural and remote communities. James’ understanding and respect for culture extends far beyond his home of Melbourne.