Inspirational photographer, Dexter McLean, who combines striking portraits with remarkable stories, is to showcase his focus on the world at Orleans House Gallery.

It is the first solo exhibition by the award-winner, who lives with cerebral palsy, which plays an important part in informing the people and issues he features.

Dexter's Tower Avenue project offers intimate and powerful images of members of the community where he grew up in Kingston, Jamaica.

Critics say his hugely exciting and socially engaged work hangs between portraiture and documentary.

Dexter says he is determined to challenge misrepresentations of disability while inspiring young disabled people to follow their dreams.

And - long-term – he has an ambition is to create a collective portrait documenting the disabled community in Jamaica.

As a youngster, Dexter had a challenging time in Jamaica, which had limited provision for disabled citizens.

His family came to Britain when he was nine and his interest in photography began when he was gifted a small digital camera at the age of 13.

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Dexter went on to complete a Bachelors and a Masters degree in Photography at Middlesex University. His work was quickly noticed, and he featured in the Taylor Wessing Portrait Photography Prize 2016 exhibition at the National Portrait Gallery.

In November 2021, he was awarded the Hood Medal from the Royal Photographic Society. It recognises photography and public service and is awarded to bodies of work raising awareness of current issues.

Dexter's show will open at Orleans House Gallery on March 17 and is free to visit.

A programme of public talks, exhibition tours, photography workshops and online videos will also accompany the exhibition, including a panel discussion with Dexter and the curatorial team at Autograph Gallery, London; and a special edition of our free monthly family activity 'Let's Get Creative'.

There will also be a chance for visitors to the gallery to own a piece of Dexter's fantastic work where a number of limited-edition prints will be for sale.

Tower Avenue is curated by Dexter Mclean with Richmond Arts Service Exhibitions Programmer Andy Franzkowiak.

Cllr John Coombs, the Council's spokesperson for Art, said: "This is a fantastic opportunity for residents and visitors to the borough to see an award-winning and powerful exhibition at Orleans House Gallery.

"If you haven't been to the gallery in Twickenham before, it's set in beautiful gardens overlooking the River Thames with a wonderful café and an amazing programme of exhibitions for everyone to enjoy. Dexter Mclean's exhibition is sure to be a highlight this year."

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