On Thursday December 6th from 7:00pm-9:00pm, photographer Alex Smailes will have an artist talk surrounding his recent exhibition ’10′ which will be held at Medulla Art Gallery, located at 37 Fitt Street, Woodbrook, Port of Spain, Trinidad.  Smailes will speak about his process and inspirations. To RSVP 740 7597 /

Seven Mile mining village, Hururu Reservation, Guyana, 2012

ABOUT THE SHOW

In 2002, after working extensively as a photojournalist in the Middle East, the South Pacific, South Asia, the Caucasus and the Balkans, Alex Smailes moved to Trinidad and Tobago. This exhibition celebrates the 10th anniversary of that move and what Smailes has observed and documented throughout the region since. Images from some of Alex’s better-known series – from gangs in Port of Spain, to Aristide’s last days in Haiti are on display here. Also present are some of the traditions and snatched, everyday moments that, while uniquely Caribbean, resonate with universal themes. This collection of images is characterised by Smailes’ intense interest in understanding and capturing his adopted region, and also by his sensitive eye, which finds beauty not only where expected but also in the mundane or disturbing, all of which mix together to create a striking visual picture of a complex region.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Alex Smailes came to Trinidad in 2002 to publish a book, and in 2004 released Trinidad and Tobago with Macmillan Publishers. 10, the title of Alex’s exhibition and new book, celebrates the conclusion of a decade in the Caribbean this year. The exhibition is but a small glimpse of the body of work that Alex has accomplished, while the book provides a deeper look into Alex’s journey. Moving away from a traditional publication process, this production is a representation of how digital, technology and publishing have changed over the years. In an exploration of doing things differently, this book portrays not only Smailes’ work but newer, economical production methods, the ability to problem solve and be creative with limited resources. Designed by Richard Rawlins, Melanie Archer as the curator and writer, printed by Trinidad Guardian, packaged by Sign Post and sponsored by North Eleven and support from AGO, 10 is a completely locally made publication.