Belfast Exposed Gallery II

Not Surrendering tells the story of  loyalist communities, struggling to shape a distinct identity in  post-conflict Northern Ireland. In documents the daily lives of loyalist  working-class communities, including members of the illegal  paramilitary groups that exist within them. By focusing on the space and  routine in which his subjects inhabit, Śmiejek gives us an insight into  the ‘siege mentality of these communities. The work also spotlights the  atmosphere of despair that accompanies each successive generation –  trapped socially and mentally in unprocessed traumas from which it  cannot escape.

The aim of Śmiejek’s work is to shine a light on reconciliation and healing in post-conflict societies. In Not Surrendering,  the difficulties of healing communities that are divided territorially,  politically, nationally, and religiously are examined. In particular,  Śmiejek highlights the challenges facing those seeking to reach out to  young people from families deeply involved in past and present  conflicts.

We are also delighted that Not Surrendering will be accompanied by No Surrender: The Protestant an exhibition of archival work by Ed Kashi, the prolific American  photojournalist whose work in the 1980s-1990s documenting Protestant  communities shares many common themes with Not Surrendering.

Not Surrendering is on display in Gallery II from 5th to 28th October. It will be  accompanied by an artist talk, with Mariusz Śmiejek in conversation with  Malachi O'Doherty & Ed Kashi on 19th October.