What We See is Not Always Black and White is a new exhibition curated by photographer, Steve Forrest.
The Manchester-based photographer has delved into his archive of work from across his career to showcase some of his most compelling pictures.
Having covered everything from foreign affairs to Hollywood stars such as Cate Blanchett and Natalie Portman, a variety of work will be on display.
Steve has selected 34 photomontages, and eight photos presented in response to what he sees as an ‘increasingly simplified and polarised narrative’ that dominates mainstream media.
“This reflection of the past has made me look more closely at the ‘grey areas’ that exist in today’s most hotly disputed topics,” he said.
“Despite having seen some of the worst of humanity while photographing wars, I see goodness and kindness all around me.
“My montages are a way of addressing the subtleties and complexities of a life lived through the lens.”
After initially training as a graphic designer, Steve was eager to see the world and retrained as a photographer.
Steve has travelled the world and even been threatened by soldiers through his career (Image: Steve Forrest)
Within a year, he’d gone from being a staff photographer at the Oxford Journal to going through the Gaza Strip, which was under military curfew.
Steve has had soldiers threaten to shoot him and has even faced death during Eritrea’s war with Ethiopia in 2000 across his more than 30-year career.
The photographer has also had brushes with fame, meeting many of his heroes including Nelson Mandela, Muhammed Ali and U2.
Now, reflecting on his career, Steve notes how divided he feels modern society has become but remains optimistic about the future.
“As shades of grey enter into my work, I see more possibilities to find common ground,” he said.
“Despite the world becoming more polarised, the debates simplified and personal, I believe that the majority of people will be able to ignore the media hysteria and narrowing of debate and form opinions more representative of their lives.”
What We See is Not Always Black and White will open at Warrington Museum on January 18 and will run until March 20.