A new free exhibition celebrating the life and work of one of Australia’s most acclaimed and beloved actors, Heath Ledger: A Life In Pictures, will open at the National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA), Canberra on Friday 10 August 2018.
Ledger achieved great success in both Australia and Hollywood before his tragic death in 2008 at just 28 years old. He left behind 18 diverse film acting roles, from a teen heartthrob in 10 Things I Hate About You (1999) to a cultural icon in the title role of Ned Kelly (2003), a sheep herder in Brokeback Mountain (2005), a heroin addict in Candy (2006), and his final role as Tom in The Imaginarium of Doctor Parnassus (released 2009).
Developed by the Western Australian Museum, in collaboration with the Ledger family, Heath Ledger: A Life In Pictures offers a rare insight into the man behind the camera. Audiences will be able to explore a selection of film costumes and props, Heath’s own character research journals, celebrity portraits and acting awards, and more.
“We are very excited the NFSA has decided to pick up this exhibition for so many reasons, mostly because it gives both east side Aussies and inbound tourists a chance to enjoy a sensitive and lovely insight to the life of our talented young man, Heath!” said Ledger’s family.
On display will be rare objects including: research journals with handwritten notes, kept by Heath to prepare for roles such as The Joker in The Dark Knight; original costumes from The Dark Knight and Brokeback Mountain; and his Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor and BAFTA for The Dark Knight.
Also on display will be two of Heath’s motorcycles and several of his photo cameras; a wide range of images, including Heath’s own photographic works, and portraits by several renowned photographers, including Karin Catt, Frances Andrijich, Platon and Anthony Amos; and a diverse selection of objects reflecting Heath’s personal interests, ranging from chess, to photography, music videos and directing.
“We are delighted to re-open the NFSA’s exhibition space with this wonderful snapshot of Heath Ledger’s life,” said Jan Müller, CEO NFSA. “Widely recognised as one of the best actors of his generation, Heath captured the hearts of audiences around the world.”
“Yet acting was in fact only one of his many facets. Through this exhibition fans will discover, and hopefully be inspired by his creative process and his passion for photography and the arts,” adds Müller.
Heath Ledger: A Life in Pictures
National Film and Sound Archive of Australia (NFSA), McCoy Circuit, Acton (Canberra)
Exhibition: 10 August 2018 – 10 February 2019
Free admission
For more information, visit: www.nfsa.gov.au for details.
Image: Heath Ledger – photo by Karin Catt