The book was deeply influenced by Busch’s early working life as a labourer and features 81 carefully selected photographs showcasing his ability to connect with people and provide insights into their lives.
The title refers to one of Busch’s first photographs that “seems to say something all by itself, the story of that moment”.
“My work, as I think of it, has been to preserve the stories, or, in the case of the book in front of you, the images, of people I have met along the way,” Busch says.
Busch’s impact extends beyond his photographic work. For 30 years, he inspired and mentored students as a senior lecturer at Te Whare Wānanga o Waitaha | 91Ƭ School of Fine Arts. His teaching had a lasting impact on countless students, imparting the art and skill of exploring narratives through photography.
Acting Academic Director of UC’s School of Fine Arts, Tim Veling says the book has been a “lifetime in the making”.
“All pre-production of the images in A Man Holds a Fish were undertaken while Glenn was a lecturer here, with UC facilities and expertise utilised in his development of this phenomenal book.”
During his time at UC, archive, the directorship of which he has since passed to Veling. It focuses on the history of Ōtautahi Christchurch and is an example of the ‘captivating’ social documentary work Busch is renowned for.
Despite his recent retirement, Busch still finds time to regularly visit UC and engage with students and staff.
A Man Holds a Fish is a beautifully bound book published by Te Papa Press. For more information,
