Photography Collection

A Provincial Reconstruction Team (PRT) uses slides to show the local people that the Dutch troops have come with good intentions. The Uruzgan Task Force was launched on 1 August 2006 with the aim of maintaining security and starting reconstruction work in the area, together with the local population. The PRT is a special military unit that helps with the reconstruction of the country. Photos: Hans Stakelbeek

A collection of images of everyday life in Afghanistan will be displayed for the first time in Great Britain in an exhibition starting tomorrow. Out of the Dust – Life in Afghanistan features images by Dutch photographer Hans Stakelbeek. The exhibition runs from 30 July-31 August 2008 at PM Gallery, the extension to architect Sir John Soane’s home, Pitzhanger Manor in Ealing, west London. In 2007, Hans Stakelbeek was commissioned by the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs to document the reconstruction of Afghanistan during ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability to the country. Stakelbeek made four trips last year, shooting in Kabul and Uruzgan, as well as other remote areas. As the project developed, Stakelbeek became interested in capturing the stories of the people he came to know, as well as the reconstruction efforts required by his official posting.

The exhibition presents a set of images that pays tribute to the determination of the Afghan people to survive and live as normally as possible through the upheaval, building homes, going to school and working and playing in testing and frightening times. Stakelbeek’s own written commentary reveals the stories within each photograph. The often surprising collection gives a rare view of daily life in Afghanistan without a military slant. The exhibition is an up-to-date presentation of current life and an opportunity to see how the country is changing, how the reconstruction is progressing and to witness the admirable perseverance of ordinary people in an extraordinary situation.

Visitor Information
Exhibition Dates: 30 July-31 August 2008. Admission is free to all visitors
Opening Times: Tuesday-Friday & Sunday 1-5pm; Saturday 11am-5pm
Special free exhibition tour with Hans Stakelbeek: – 2pm, Saturday 30 August
For further information www.ealing.gov.uk/pmgalleryandhouse.
PM Gallery & Pitzhanger Manor, Walpole Park, Mattock Lane, Ealing, London, W5 5EQ
Travel: Trains & tube (via Central or District Lines) to Ealing Broadway. Buses 207, 65 & 83.