Asher Imtiaz, a documentary photographer, comes to Upper House with a deep portfolio. With us, he will discuss both the practice and process of documentary photography—including its complexity and the sensitivity required to photograph people, especially strangers. Photography can serve many important functions, Asher will relate, functions that relate less to the camera and lighting than to storytelling.

Drawing from his body of work, “God at ‘I’ Level,” Asher will reflect on the importance of seeing and listening slowly, even in the midst of civil unrest. In his experience, it is only through careful attention to the person can photographers engage and build the trust necessary to produce intimate portraits. Such attention enables photographers to tell stories and capture unguarded emotions and unforced expressions.

Asher Imtiaz was born and raised in Pakistan and moved to the United States in 2012. He currently resides in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, where he works for a multinational technology company and helps lead international student outreach at his church. Asher began his journey as a photographer focusing on religious and minority groups in Pakistan. Over the past several years, he has focused on photographing immigrants (mainly refugees and asylum seekers) moving to the United States. His work on immigrants is published in Comment and frequently in The Living Church magazine. You can find more of Asher’s work on his website.

In-person event at Upper House—No virtual option is available.

5:30-6:30 PM — Art Show and Reception

“PRESSURE Under Grace” features the photography of Barry Sherbeck and Asher Imtiaz. Appetizers, desserts, and refreshments will be served.

6:30-8:00 PM — Presentation by Asher Imtiaz, followed by a time of Q&A

8:00-9:00 PM — 15 spots are reserved for a photography walking tour with Asher Imtiaz through part of the UW-Madison, State Street, to the Capitol Square.

We are currently wait-listing this portion of the event.