Belfast Exposed Photography Company Limited by Guarantse Trustses, Annual Report (Incorporating the Directofs Report) Year ended 31 March 2024 The trustees, who are also the directors for the purposes of company law. present their report and the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 31 March 2024. Reference and admlnlstratlve d•tall8 Reglstsred charlty namo Belfast Exposed Photography 104973 Charlty reglstratlon number Company reg18tratlon number N1041605 Prlnclpal office and regl8tered The Exchange Place offic6 23 Donegall Street Belfast BT12FF Tho tru8t8•8 CE Doran Mr A Leonard Miss A Early Ms M Harte Mr C Heath Mr A M Jone8 Ms S Chakravarti Mrs S Beaty Ms H Morris- Cafiero MrT Corr (Resigned 26 March 2024) (Resigned 1 Septemb8r 2024) (Re8KJned 19 February 2024) (Appointed 16 April 2023) (Appointed 16 April 2023) (Resigned 17 April 2023) Audltor FEB Chartered Accountants Chartered accountants & 8tatutory auditor Linenhall Exchange 1 st Floor. 26 Linanhall Street Belfast Northern Ireland BT2 88G Bankern Danske Bank Limited 819 Donegall Square North Belfast BT15GJ Sollcltors Millar Mccall 8 Wlie 370-374 Upper Newtownards Road Belfast BT4 3EY
Belfast Exposed Photography Company Llmitsd by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report {Incorporating the Dlrectofs Report) (¢onUn Year ended 31 March 2024 Trustees report As trustees of Beffast Exposed, we are delighted to present this annual report, outlining the remarkable achlevements and impactful work undertaken by the organisation from April 2023 to March 2024. Throughout thi5 period, Belfast Exp08ed ha5 continued to flourish as Northern Ireland's foremost photography organisation, delivering creative and inGluslve programm8S that empower indrviduals, bulld stronger communty connections. and address vital societal challenges. This year has exemplified growth, resilience, and an unwavering dedication to utili8ing photography as a tran$fomiative force for posrtive change. Belf88t Exposed remains steadfast in its mission to promote photography as a tool for empowerment, social change, and inclusivity. The organisation believes in the transfomative power of photography, which 8errfe8 a8 both a m8dlum for personal expression and a cataly8t for collective transformation. By creating accessible and high-qualty opportunities. Belfast Exposed ensures that people from all walks of lrfe can engage with the photO9raphic arts, fostering crgativity, dialogue, and understandlng.
Belfast Exposed Photography Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporatlng the Directorfs Report) (conbnwd) Year ended 31 March 2024 Achlevements over tho year The past year has been rich with achievements that underscore Belfast Exposed's impact on indivKluals and cornmunities. Between April 1 2023 and March 31 2024, Belfast Exp088d curated seriés of compelling exhibitions that showcased a divers8 array of photographic works, engaging both local and irrternational audience8. The programme commenced with the JerwoodlPhotoworks Awards 4 Touring ExhibFtion, running from April 6 to May 20 2023. This exhibition featured innovatlve work8 from emerging artists, refiecting contemporary them88 and practices in photography. Concurrently, from April 6 to May 20, 2023, the gallery presented "A Door, a Picture Frame and the Number 52," an exhibition that invited viewers to explore narrative and abstraction through a unique photographic lens. In May 2023, "BANSHEE" was showcased from May 11 to May 20, offering a profound exploration of cultural myths and their contemporary resonances. June 2023 featured the Alain Le Garsmeur Retrospective, running from June 1 to July 22. This exhibition provided a comprehensive look at the esteemed photograph8rf8 work, highlightSng his contributions to documentary photography. Slmultaneou81y, from June 1 to July 22, 2023, "Else Time,, the Ulster Univer8ity MFA Photography Exhibition, 8howca8ed emerging talents, offering fre6h perspectives and innovative 8pproache8 to the medium. In August. Belfast Exposed presented Portrait of Humanity Vol. 5" from August 3 to September 23, 2023, celebrating the diversity and unty of human experiences through POvrtu1 imagery. Alongside thls, "Showcase.. Coronation Generation 2023" wa3 di8played from August 4 to August 25, hlghlighting the CatiVe expre88ion8 of a naw generation of photographers. The autumn season featured Not Surrendering,. exhibited from October 5 to November 4, 2023. delving into themes of r88ilience and identity. In November, 'Type 1 Through the Lens," in partnership with Diabetes UK Northern Ireland, was showcased from Movember 14 to November 18, 2023, raising 8warene88 about diabetes through personal photographlc narratiV88. The year concluded with 'The Big Christm88 Photo Sale 2023," runnlng from November 21, 2023, to January 13, 2024. offering the publlc an opportunlty to acquire unique photographic works. In December, Seeing Through a Different Lens" v8 exhibited from December 7, 2023. to January 13, 2024, presenting diverse pgrspectives and challenging conventlonal viewpoints. The programmg continued into the new year with 'Now & Then - 40 Year8 of 8elfast Exposed," from February 1 to March 23. 2024, celebrating the gallery'8 four-decade legacy in promoting photographic arts. Concurrently. "Navigating Queer Landscapes" was on display from February 6 to March 30, 2024. exploring LGBTQ+ narratives and space8 through photography. In March, "Memrial Unmemorial" was exhibited from March 7 to March 23, 2024, offering a poignant reflection on memory and commemoration. This exhibition attracted significant media interest and was featured on BBC Simultaneousty, "Our Archive: 40 Years of Belfast Exposed," running from March 7 to June 1, 2024, provided an in-depth look into the gallery's extensive archival collection8, highlightlng its enduring impact on the photographic landscape. These exhibitions collectively underscored Beffast Exposed's commitment to fostering artistic expression. cuttural dialogue, and community engagement through the medium of photography. Thls exhibition attracted 4,000 on the launch night. The gallery served as a vibrant hub. wlth audiences in excess of 60,000. These exhibitions were more than just displays of art,. they provi(Jed platforms for dialogue and reflection. That included public events and tslks. Notable highlights included "Resllience in Focus," which highlighted Northem Ireland's political and social evolution, and "The Lens of Neurodiversty." an inspiring collaboration with Lorraine Tuck that highlighted the lived experienrS of familias navigating autisrn and intellectual disabilities. Through these events, we received enthusiastic feedback attesting to the accessibilty and relevance of th8 showcased worf(s.
Belfast Exposed Photography Company Limltsd by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report (Incorporating th8 Dlrectorfs Report) (conthiuedj Year ended 31 March 2024 Beyond the gallery walls. BeFfast Exposed delivered over 5,000 therapeutic photography workshops delivered to 150 groups to 1150 individuals. These initiatives prioritised mental health, engaging diverse groups such as older adults. trauma survivors. and individu818 facing social isolati. Projects like "Connecting Lives: Women of Baltybeen and Falls United "exemplified the organisation's dedication to fostering cross-communty relationships and reducing loneliness. Meanwhile. "Creative Memory Workshops" 8UPPOrted individuals with Alzheimerf8, using photography to preserve memories and enhance well-being. The impact of these programrnes was profourKI, with 85% of participants reporting significant improvements in mental health, confldence, and social connections. Community engagement continued to be a cornerstone of Belfast Exposed's work. Over 1,150 Indivua1S from diverse backgrounds participated in mental health and communty programme8. Many of these programmes were cro88-communty. building bridges of understanding through collaborative workshop8 and exhibilions. The organisation 8180 extended It8 reach to rural areas, ensuring underserved communittes could access the benefft8 of photography. The Belfast Exposed Archive remains a vital resource, preserving Northern Ireland's photO9raphic history. Thi6 year, efforts to expand and digiti88 the archive gained momentum, ensuring its continued accessibility for future generations. Additionally, plans were set in motion for a semi-permanent conffict axhibltion, de3igned to showcase Belfast's stories while 8uPpo.n9 cuttural tourism Initiatives. Tralnlng prngrammes Belfast Exposed's training programmes are an essential part of it8 misslon to empower indlvidua18 and build ski118 through photography. The organisation offers a range of training opportunities tailored to 8UIt various need8, from beginners exploring photography for the first time to advanced practitioners honing thelr craft Over the past year, training programmes focused on technical proficiency, creative development, and professional opportunities, ensuring acce88ibilty for 811 participants. The Futures Programme has been a 8tandout 8ucce8s, mentoring 20 emerging photographers an(J equipplng them with the skills and confidence to embark on profession81 careers. Participants gained hand8-on experience through workshops. mentorship. and portfolio reviéws, culminating in opportunities to showcase their work in publlc exhibitions. Addltlonally, Belfast Exposed delivered over 50 training workshops to schools, unrversities, and communlty groups. engaglng more than 1,000 participants. These workshops Introduced tho fvndaments15 of photography. explored storytelling tschnique8, and demonstrated the potential of photography 88 a tCK*l for advocacy and expression. Many of these trainlng programm88 al80 addressed cross-cutting them88. 8uch as mental heatth and social cohesion. For example, specialised w08P8 provided participants with therapeutic tools to navigate personal challenges and build lI[enCe. OtheTr fostered dialogue and collaboration 8mong diverse communities, demonstrating the power of photography to bridge divides and promote understsnding. The training programme8 are 8UPPOrted by a dedicated team of professionals who bring a wealth of expertise and p8S8ion to th8ir work. Their efforts have ensured that Belfast Exposed's training inrtiatives remain a vital and transformatlve part of the organi$ation's Rnpact, contnl)uting to the development of a thriving photographic communty in Northern Ireland.
Belfast Exposed Photography Company Limitsd by Guarantee Trustees, Annual Report {Incorporatlng the Dlrectorfs Report) (tt)ntTnued) Year ended 31 March 2024 Heallng through photography conference In April 2024, Belfast Exposed hosted the highly anticipated Healing Through Photography conference, which brought together artists, mental health practitioners, and community leaders to 8xplore the transfonnative power of photc¥Jraphy as a tool for healing and social change. This event highlighted the organisation's commitment to addr8Ping rnental health challenges through innovative approaches to art and engagement. The conference featured keynot8 speeches from renowned mental health experts and photographers who shared insights into how visual Sto8111ng can aid in mental well-being. Panel discussions delved into the intersection of creativity and therapy. showcasing real-life examples of how photography has been used to foster r88ilience, reduce isolation. and 8UPPOrt recovery. Workshops provided P8rticipant8 With practical tools and techniques for Incorporating photography into thetapeutic pr8Ctices, f08tering both dialogue and skill-building. The went wa8 attended by over 200 d6legate8, including heaFthGare profe88ionals, artists, and community representstives. F88dback from attendees was ov8rwhelmingly p081tive, w5th many prai8ing the conference for its thought-provoklng content and practical applications. This landmark event further cemanted Belfast Exposed's reputation as a leader in harnessing the art8 for social Impact and healing. Further to the conference both the Engagement Manager and Engagement Manager undertook a Postgraduate Degree in therapeutic photography at the Robert Gordon Univer8ity. This has led to significant 8ki118 development and has elevated Belfast Exposed to hav8 specialist In the field of therapeutic photography. Dorniant accounts fund awanl In a 6ignificant achievement, Betl88t Exposed was 8ucce6sfully awarded £100,000 furKling from the Domiant Accounts Fund for a three-year period. This funding ha8 been instrumentsl in enabling the organisation to expand ts reach and enhance its core oper8tions. The award has SUPPOrted the delivery of Innovative programm88 that focus on mental h88lth. cross-community engagement, and skill-building through photography. Addrtionally. the fundlng ha8 facilitated the digitisation of archival resources, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for future generations. The Dormant Accounts Fund has also enabled Belfast Exposed to inve8t in staff training and development, strengthening the organisation's CApacty to deliver impactful and sustainable inrtiative8 across Northern Irelsnd. Looklng ahead As Belfast Exposed looks to the future, saveral key priorities have been identified. Expanding mental health initiatlV88 remains at the forefront, with plans to scale therapeutic photography proj8Ct8 to reach even more communities. The launch of a semi-perman8nt conflict exhibition 8ims to attract an additional 5,000 visltors annually, further enhancing cultural tourism. Partnerships with organlsatbons like Diabetes UK will address the intersection of mental and physical health, while continued environmental efforts will integrate sustainable practices across operations. Gratitude and c1081ng thoughts The truste88 express their deepest gratitude to the staff, volunteers, funders. and participants whose dedication and support have been instrumental to Belfast Exposed's success. This year has been one of remarkable achievements and meaningful impact, affirming the organisation's role as a vrtal force for positive change in Northem Ireland. As we look to the year ahead, we remain committe(I to grovrth. innovation. and the empowemient of communities through the power of photography.
Belfast Exposed Photography Company Llmlted by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporating the Directors Report) leondnu6dJ Year ended 31 March 2024 Trustees. respontslbilities Statsment The trustees. who are also directors for the purposes of company law, are responsible for preparing the trustees, report and the financial statements in accordance with applicable law and United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice). Cornpany law requires the charity trustees to prepare financial ststements for each year which give a true and fair vithv of the stste of affairs of the charitable company and the incoming resources and application of resources, Including the income and expenditure, for that period. In pparing th888 financial statements, the trust888 are required to: select suitable accountlng policies and then app them con8lstently' observe th8 methods and principl88 in the applicable Charlties SORP. mak8 judgments and accounting 88timates that are reasonable and prudent; prepare the fi'nancial 8tatement8 on the going concem basis unless It is inapproprtate to preBUff that the charity wlll continue in buslne8S. The tru8tee8 are re8pon8ibl8 ft)r keeping adequate accourrting records that are sufficient to Show and explain the charity's transactions and di8c108e with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial positbn of the charity and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the Companies Act 2006. They are also respon8ib16 for safeguarding the assets of the charlty and hence for tsking reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other irregularities. Audltor Each of the per80ns WI is a tru8tee at the date of approval of thi8 report confimis that: 80 far a8 they are &w8re, there is no relevant audit infomiation of which the charity's auditor is unaware. arKI they have taken all step8 that they ought to have taken as a trustee to make themselves aware of 8ny relevant audit Infomiation and to establish that the charity's audttor 18 aware of that information. The auditor 18 deemed to have been re-appointed in accordanc6 with section 487 of the Comp8nie8 Act 21M. Small company pn)vlslon$ This report has baen prared In accordance with the provisions applicable to companies entlued to the small companies exemption.
Belfast Exposed Photography Company Limited by Guarantee Trustees. Annual Report (Incorporating the Dlrectorfs Report) (con¢inu Year ended 31 March 2024 The trustoes, annual report was approved on 12 December 2024 and signed on behalf of the board of trustees by: Ciaran Iliiabeth Daran (Dec 17, 2024 14..45 GMT) CE Doran Trustee