Bloomington, Indiana – In a world often marked by division, the new “Groups Collective” photography exhibition in Bloomington, Indiana, is offering a refreshing reminder of the power of unity and belonging. This project, created by the collaborative duo Jon Tonks from the UK and Roman Franc from the Czech Republic, features a collection of group portraits that celebrate civic life and bring together communities from across the globe. What makes this exhibition particularly special is that Bloomington is the first city in the United States to be featured in this project.
“Groups Collective” is not just a photography exhibit—it’s a community-building experience. The photographs showcase diverse groups, representing a wide array of cultures and backgrounds, all united by a common thread: their shared sense of place and identity. Each portrait in the series is more than just an image; it is a testament to the power of community and the restorative force that comes from people coming together. In an era when group identity is often used to create division, these portraits stand as a force against that narrative, celebrating unity instead of division.
The public was invited to the opening of “Groups Collective” with an exciting reception on Friday, June 6, from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The event kicked off with a lively gallery walk and a block party, offering visitors an opportunity to enjoy live music, food trucks, and local vendors along 4th Street in Bloomington. The event, which was free to attend, also featured The Back Door Art Market, an annual favorite in the area.
During the reception, visitors were able to explore the captivating group portraits while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere created by the food, music, and camaraderie. The exhibition was open to the public and will continue to be on view until August 29. The gallery is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., offering a chance for community members to come and experience the artwork in a welcoming, accessible environment.
“Groups Collective” is the result of over a decade of collaboration between Jon Tonks and Roman Franc. The duo has worked together across many projects, but this particular series stands out for its exploration of group dynamics and its focus on community life. While both photographers have their distinct approaches to photography, the “Groups Collective” project combines their talents in a unique way.
Roman Franc’s work primarily focuses on documenting groups of people across the Czech Republic and beyond, with an emphasis on capturing the essence of communities in cities and villages. He is known for his striking images that not only capture the people but also communicate their shared sense of identity and purpose. Franc’s approach emphasizes the importance of the rituals and ceremonies that precede the act of taking a photograph, reflecting a deeper understanding of photography as both an art form and a social practice.
Jon Tonks, on the other hand, is known for his compelling visual storytelling of remote and overlooked communities. His project Empire, which explores life in British Overseas Territories, brought him widespread recognition and praise, including accolades such as the Vic Odden Award from the Royal Photographic Society. In the “Groups Collective” series, Tonks brings his sharp documentary eye to bear on the groups he photographs, creating a striking contrast between the individual and the collective.
While their backgrounds and geographical focuses are different, both artists share a commitment to creating work that captures the essence of the communities they photograph. As they work together, they have developed a shared aesthetic and vision for their projects, drawing on each other’s strengths to create powerful, impactful images.
Both Franc and Tonks bring a sense of humor and warmth to their work, encouraging those they photograph to step outside their comfort zones and participate in the creative process. The resulting portraits are more than just documentation; they become a form of community-building. By gathering people together to create these photographs, Franc and Tonks foster a sense of camaraderie and connection, transforming the act of taking a picture into a communal event.
In an increasingly digital world, where social media often creates false narratives around group identity, the “Groups Collective” project serves as a refreshing counterpoint. It challenges the idea that group identity is solely about division and conflict, offering instead a celebration of shared experience and unity. These portraits capture fleeting moments of connection that remind us of the importance of belonging to a community.
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The images in the “Groups Collective” series transcend geographical and cultural boundaries, making them universal in their message. Whether they’re capturing people in a Czech village, a British pub, or Bloomington’s own community spaces, the photographs convey a timeless message about the beauty of coming together as a group, regardless of background or circumstance.
Roman Franc and Jon Tonks are no strangers to the world of photography, and their bodies of work reflect their passion for capturing the complexities of human life. Franc’s work has long been tied to the tradition of Brno photography, a movement that avoids trends and instead focuses on creating images that have depth and meaning. His photography, particularly his group portraits, offers a chance to affirm the shared identity of those gathered in front of the lens.
Tonks, on the other hand, has built his career on capturing remote communities and exploring how geography and history shape human lives. His critically acclaimed book Empire is just one example of his dedication to documenting overlooked communities around the world. His work has appeared in top publications such as The New York Times, National Geographic, and The Guardian, and his images are held in prestigious collections like those of Stanford University and the Museum of Fine Arts Houston.
Together, Franc and Tonks have forged a partnership that draws on their individual strengths to create work that is both deeply personal and universally resonant. Their “Groups Collective” project represents a culmination of their shared vision, offering a glimpse into the lives of people from all corners of the world and celebrating the human connections that bind us together.
The “Groups Collective” exhibition also has a personal connection to Bloomington itself. As the first American city to be featured in the project, Bloomington serves as a representation of the diverse and vibrant communities that make up the United States. The portraits in this exhibition showcase a broad spectrum of local life, with each image serving as a tribute to the people who call this city home.
For Bloomington residents, the exhibit offers an opportunity to see their own community through the eyes of two talented photographers. It’s a chance to reflect on what it means to belong to a place, and how our connections to each other shape the way we experience the world. The project serves as a reminder that no matter where we are from, we all share a common human experience that transcends borders.
The “Groups Collective” exhibition in Bloomington is not just an art show—it’s a celebration of unity, belonging, and the power of community. Through their photographs, Roman Franc and Jon Tonks invite us to reconsider the way we view ourselves and each other, reminding us of the importance of connection in a world that too often seeks to divide. As the exhibition continues throughout the summer, it will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on all who experience it.
For more information on “Groups Collective” and the exhibition’s schedule, visit the official website at www.groupscollective.com.
