Duncan Menge's travel photographs capture stories in split seconds of time. He freezes moments that disappear as soon as the shutter closes - moments even the protagonists in his stories may never be aware of. He is a close observer of people and movement - sometimes directly engaging with his subject, at others invisible to them. The beauty that shines through in his perfectly composed images, comes from his engagement with daily life around him and an ability to notice small details alongside the grand. Menge's photographs reflect curiosity, empathy, tenderness, compassion and humour. They also reflect a masterful understanding of light and shadow. Cassie French Curator and Photographer