Down From London

Down from London, featuring London-based photographer Paul Halliday. Over two decades, Halliday captured images of various parts of London, including East London, Westminster, Greenwich, and Brixton. His photographs depict a city transitioning from its post-war malaise to a new economic model centred on finance, services, urban regeneration, and gentrification.

The event included a panel discussion with local photographers Nigel Rumsey and Simon Martin, who explored parallels between London's transformation and the challenges and opportunities facing Gravesend.

The evening concluded with a Q&A session, providing attendees with insights into urban change and photographic practice.

Paul Halliday

Paul Halliday is a photographic artist, filmmaker, and urbanist known for long-term visual projects focusing on urban change, landscapes, and the material cultures of contemporary city life. Originally studying sociology, law, and social research, he retrained in photojournalism, fine art filmmaking, and social anthropology at institutions including the London College of Communications and Central Saint Martins. He served as the course director of the international MA in Photography and Urban Cultures at Goldsmiths, University of London, for 20 years.

Nigel Rumsey

Nigel Rumsey is a documentary photographer based in Gravesend, working across London and the southeast of the UK. He publishes The Gravesend Journal, focusing on stories from Gravesham and the local area.www.nigelrumsey.com/gravesendjournal

Simon Martin

Simon Martin is a Kent-based photographer focusing on social documentary photography and the use of land. Originally from Sittingbourne, his upbringing in the suburbs has been a continued influence on his practice. Now based in Gravesend, he continues to create and exhibit his work both locally and internationally. The event provided a platform for discussing the intersections of urban development and photographic practice, highlighting the evolving landscapes of both London and Gravesend.www.simon-martin.org