Part of Brighton Photo Biennial 4 October - 23 November 2008

Since the invention of simple box cameras, those in military service have taken pictures of the places they have visited and the things that they have done. Some have been anodyne tourist photographs or pictures of their mates mugging for the camera. Others have had complex motives, as the camera is used to collect trophies. Others still have a political purpose, to highlight conditions of service or very occasionally war crimes.

At Julian Germain, one of the best-known photographers working in the UK today, will ask those who are or have been in military service to show and talk about their photographs, to make an evolving exhibition that will give the opportunity to explore the meaning of such images.

War Memorial by Julian Germain is commissioned as part of Brighton Photo Biennial, an ambitious celebration of international photographic practice committed to stimulating critical debate on photography in all its forms.

Brighton Photo Biennial 2008, entitled, Memory of Fire: the War of Images and Images of War, is curated by Julian Stallabrass and explores photographic images of war, their making, use and circulation, and their currency in contemporary society. Stallabrass presents photography, film and online material produced and circulated in time of war, and explores how images have been shaped by the changing social and political conditions from the Vietnam era to the present. The exhibitions will include images produced by photojournalists, artists and non-professionals.

For this third edition, the Biennial extends its geographical boundaries to include nine venues across the South East Coast from Bexhill on Sea to Portsmouth. Three venues, including the major exhibition are in Brighton. Free admission to all exhibitions.

Finally, BPB2008 reaches the vast online community through a new website that functions as a platform for ideas and discussion around the theme of photography and conflict. Participate and have your say by posting a comment at: www.bpb.org.uk/2008 

Wednesday 5 November, 2-4pm Informal gallery discussion with Sgt. Steve Armon Agt Steve Armon, who has loaned photographs to the exhibition showing his experience of serving in Afghanistan, will be available in the gallery to talk about his pictures. No booking requires, just drop into the gallery.

Wednesday 5 November, 6.30pm Discussion about War Memorial and BPB2008 With speakers Julian Germain and Sgt. Steve Armon.
Admission is free but booking is essential as places are limited for this event.