Assistant Professor of Art History Nadya Bair recently presented “Photography Exhibitions and the Magnum Brand” at the Image Centre at Toronto Metropolitan University. The sold-out talk examined the creation of some of the Magnum agency’s early exhibitions and projects, demonstrating “how such endeavours helped consolidate the idea of Magnum as a group of international, humanist photographers who followed their instincts and values rather than catering to the work of its clients.”
In July, Bair gave the keynote lecture at “The Study Days for Photography” (“Studientage”) focusing on “Photography and Movement,” held at the German Documentation Center for Art History/Bildarchiv Foto Marburg. Her talk examined the history of traveling exhibitions organized by Cornell Capa prior to his creation of the International Center of Photography. The organizers of the Study Days explained that during the five-day seminar, “15 (post-)doctoral students [are invited] to share and discuss their projects with experienced researchers and curators in workshops and seminar groups.
“The aim of this format is to develop a theoretical framework, explore ways of accessing sources and clarify methodological questions,” the organizers said. “In addition, we always invite a photographic artist to present his/her own work.”
Studientage also dedicates one day to photography institutions and events in the wider region, allowing participants to talk to curators and gain insights into the practice of collections, museums and festivals. Three evening public lectures are also part of the program.
In June, Bair presented at a conference on “World Tours and Globetrotters: Actors, Practices and Imaginaries,” hosted by the University of Geneva. Her talk was titled “From Photo Story Syndication to Traveling Exhibitions: Cornell Capa and the Reinvention of Documentary at the International Center of Photography (ICP).”
Posted November 19, 2025
