Now & Then: Part III

About The Exhibition

A Sense of Place

As part of Belfast Exposed's 40th-anniversary celebrations, we proudly present an exhibition that explores the multifaceted concept of "place" in contemporary photographic practice.

The artistic work presented throughout Gallery I explores and challenges the complex relationship between people and their environments, illustrating how places can shape and be shaped by the experiences of those who inhabit them. The concept of "place" tends to manifest in various forms, from specific geographic locations such as cities and landscapes to more abstract notions of belonging, like home and community. Through three distinct sections—"HOME," "TRACES," and "IDENTITY"—this exhibition invites viewers to explore these different dimensions, offering unique perspectives on how our surroundings impact our identities and perceptions.

In the first section of this exhibition, you will encounter artistic work that examines the intimate connection between individuals and the concept of "HOME." Through the works of various artists, "HOME" captures the duality of places that can simultaneously be sites of comfort and sources of discontent, showcasing projects that investigate subjects like displacement, decay, and the ordinariness of everyday life.

The second section of the exhibition, "TRACES", displays photographs that hint at or suggest what might be behind the locations shown in the images. Instead of clear and straightforward pictures, these photographers prefer to leave clues or fragments, encouraging viewers to piece together what they see. By not revealing everything outright, these photos examine the lasting effects of borders, conflict and urban transformation. Above all, they challenge the viewer to consider the realities that exist beyond the image itself, prompting reflection on the broader social, cultural, or political contexts they may be alluding to.

The exhibition's final section, "IDENTITY", is a thought-provoking exploration of how place shapes personal and collective identities, focusing on religion and politics within Northern Ireland.

"A Sense of Place" invites visitors to reflect on how places shape and are shaped by the experiences, memories, and identities of those who inhabit them. By weaving the intimate with the collective, the seen with the unseen, and the familiar with the contested, this exhibition highlights how our surroundings influence who we are and how we perceive the spaces we inhabit. As Belfast Exposed celebrates its 40th anniversary, this exhibition not only pays tribute to the gallery's legacy but also showcases the thriving contemporary photographic community in Northern Ireland. We hope that this exploration of place resonates with your experiences and encourages more profound reflection on the places that hold significance in your life.

Featured images by Shannon Ritchie, Victor Sloan and David Copeland.