The longest-running photography festival is back, now exploring the historical, political and socio-cultural significance of “Memory.” Patrick Benjamin susses out the top three highlights.

Icon de Martell Cordon Bleu

This exhibition showcases the dazzling works of three of the best local art photographers—Sean Lee, John Clang and Zhao Renhui—who were the finalists for this prestigious photography award this year. Despite having very different styles and subject matters, they share a common desire to confront realities and push boundaries through their creativity. Through Jul 25. ARTSPACE@Helutrans, #02-04 Tanjong Pagar Distripark, 39 Keppel Rd., 6225-5448.

Who should go: If you are into the local visual arts scene, feast yourself on a buffet of sensory delights.

Walls Between Peoples

This exhibition showcases the works of photographers and authors, Alexandra Novosseloff and Frank Neisse, who explore the phenomenon of walls both as physical barriers and symbols of cultural and political tension in conflict sites around the world. Through Jul 27. Société Générale Private Banking Gallery, Alliance Française, 1 Sarkies Rd., 6737-8422.

Who should go: The politically inclined will have a field day dissecting the broad collection of walls in conflict areas like Tijuana, Belfast and Jerusalem.

Requiem

An exhibition curated by veteran war photographers Horst Faas and Tim Page (who was depicted onscreen by the legendary Dennis Hopper in Apocalypse Now) serves as a memorial to 135 photojournalists who perished while covering the conflicts in Vietnam and Indochina from the 50s to 70s. It features over 300 poignant and evocative images, some of which were the very last frame that the photographers shot before dying. Through Aug 21. NAFA Galleries 1 & 2, 80 Bencoolen St., 6512-4043.

Who should go: History buffs will surely be captivated by the powerfully emotional stories painted by the images, especially since the Vietnam War is often considered the last conflict in which the media’s access was uncensored.

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