In Exile – journeys of a different kind

Photo showing some of the images from the In Exile collection

We are delighted to host another exhibition from photographer Vincent Tremeau, this time reflecting on the experience of refugees and displaced people around the world.

In Exile is a stunning collection of images that give a glimpse into the lives of those fleeing conflict and oppression. UN figures from 2023 reveal 117.3 million people (1 in every 69) had been forcibly displaced at that time including 43.4 million refugees and 68.3 million people internally displaced in their own countries. This was estimated to have risen to more than 120 million people by April 2024.

For Vincent, the project is ultimately about a question of identity: “What defines who we are?” he asks. “Is it the experiences we encounter, the choices we make, or the paths we are compelled to follow when circumstances strip us of control?

“For many, exile is not a choice but a necessity – a consequence of crisis, conflict, or survival. Through my lens, I seek to understand this complex existence between identity and displacement. I strive to look for some answers through those forced to leave their homes, sharing their resilience, pain, and hope with the world.”

Wendy Shimmin, One World Centre Coordinator, with Airport Director Geoff Pugh at the launch of the display
Wendy Shimmin, One World Centre Coordinator, with Airport Director Geoff Pugh at the launch of the display

The exhibition is on show at the Isle of Man Airport, a venue that is particularly apt.

“For most of us here, travel is a choice we make, especially when and where we go to,” said Wendy Shimmin, One World Centre Coordinator.

“But for the millions of people around the world who are refugees or displaced, there is no such choice. They leave their homes only to seek safety and sanctuary, too often finding themselves stuck in limbo in refugee camps, dependent on aid and with only dreams of experiencing a normal life.

“It is hard for us to imagine the impact such events have on so many families and Vincent’s photographs bring home the reality of the situation but also the resilience of the people in this situation.”

The display is free to visit and is in the atrium on the first floor of the airport. It is expected to be on show until early March. The exhibition follows the hugely successful showing of One Day I Will, also by Vincent Tremeau, last year.

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