Big Meetings" by Julian Germain"

About

The annual Durham Miner's Gala or 'Big Meeting' provides an outlet for local communities to reflect on their social, cultural, political and industrial heritage. It is the highlight of the year for the 70 or more brass bands that lead the parade, and offers a populist platform for countless left leaning and radical political organisations, trades unions and campaign groups. Julian Germain was invited to experience and photograph the Gala in 2011. He has also visited the community centres, band rooms, offices and houses of a range of the participating individuals and organisations across the region to produce a broader and more significant representation of the event. His work asks questions about the nature of politics now, at a point in history where it is widely held that socialist ideals have been buried by consumerism. We also have lots of events and activities taking place throughout the Summer to coincide with this exhibition. Part of Brass: Durham International Festival, 6 - 22 July 2012 - www.brassfestival.co.uk