The event held at the Birmingham and Midland Institute brought together University of Birmingham students, staff, Culture Forward partners, and professional photographers. It focused on the archival work of two influential female photographers: Lisel Haas and Rhonda Wilson.
Key Highlights:
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Lisel Haas: A German-Jewish émigré who established her photography studio in Moseley during the 1930s. Iris Bertz introduced her story, while recent graduate Franziska Eggers shared insights from her Collaborative Research Internship exploring the Lisel Haas Archive.
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Rhonda Wilson: A prominent activist whose archive is located at the Old Print Works in Balsall Heath. Dr. Annette Naudin from Birmingham City University, alongside undergraduate Ambrose Loveridge, discussed their research on Rhonda’s materials.
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Contemporary Photographers: Oxana Bischin and Rebecca Orleans, practicing photographers in Birmingham, shared their experiences in developing their craft and networks, and addressed challenges faced by female photographers.
The event highlighted the rich history of photography in Birmingham and its promising future.
Acknowledgements:
Special thanks were given to the contributors, Birmingham Heritage Week, and the BMI for hosting. The exhibition “Discovering Lisel Haas” will be available at the Library of Birmingham until December 12, 2026. For more about Rhonda Wilson, you can learn more here.
