Thursday 8 July 2010

Prep the Fringe 2010

In preparation for the Brighton Photo Fringe for the 4th time! This is an extremely busy year and despite most good venues apparently being taken up by the Brighton Photo Biennial, I am trying my luck once again...

I really look forward to seeing Alex Soth's work, however, in the meantime I have the difficult task of finding a space and deciding what work to put up. There is the option of showing work from my 2007 trip to China or to go with my more recent "Unfrastructure" project, which is still ongoing.

There is also a chance to curate some work of Chinese photographers through my good friend Wonder Wang, who is currently undertaking a PHD in Photography at Bolton University and who is involved in the curating of a Chinese photo festival this year. Choices choices choices...

Here a quick insight into the work from China followed by my "Unfrastructure" project:

China: During the study on the MA International Photojournalism course in Dalian I have attempted a few themes, ranging from "housing and estates" to "cityscapes", "seascapes" as well as "landscapes" plus a "Chinese wedding fair" and my favourite "bicycles", somewhat a minority on Chinese roads now!

















Photos © Julia Horbaschk

Unfrastructure: A more conceptual approach. Photographs of structures that I find amusing, silly, unusual or surprising. The work comments on the lack of value or appreciation for long term thinking and nature conservation.

It is based on observations and tries to hint on shared experiences and issues to do with the infrastructural problems on the ground. However, rather then just being critical it is meant to ask questions and engage the audience. Questions such as: why do we often feel paralysed when discovering faults or how can we create change rather then just complain? I hope that the photographs stimulate a discussion about civic engagement.

The themes currently include: nature within the city, property up keeping and the transport and traffic systems within Brighton and Hove/ nearby areas.
















Photos © Julia Horbaschk


I welcome any constructive comments. In particular about which project to carry forward to this year's Photo Fringe.

If you want to take part in the Brighton Photo Fringe contact: info@photofringe.org
Deadline for registration is Monday, 26th July. The next meeting for those who haven't found a space yet or need further advice is on Thursday, 29th July 6-8pm at the Phoenix Gallery red room in Brighton.

If you feel your work relates and you would like to work together please contact me: j.horbaschk@gmail.com