Somewhere in Sukabumi, by Julian Sihombing. (Courtesy of Galeri Foto Jurnalistik Antara)

Antara Photo Gallery (GFJA) presents an exhibition that features the work of senior photographer Julian Sihombing.

Despite the pouring rain, the hall of the exhibition that opened on Jan. 15 was full of friends, family and guests who came to remember Julian and appreciate his work.

The 53-year-old photographer with Kompas daily died of cancer last October.

A visitor enjoys a work of Julian Sihombing. (JP/Emir Prasetyo)Julian was known for his ability and skill to capture awe-inspiring pictures, many of which won him awards. One of his many memorable photographs was taken in 1998 during the bloody riots, when students of Trisakti University rallied in the streets to demand the resignation of Soeharto.

Among his most famous photographs is a picture of a Trisakti University student, lying helpless and injured on the roadside. His other most popular work includes pictures of Soeharto’s last day, and photos of former first lady Tien Suharto.

The exhibition opening was also the official launch of his “remastered” photo book, the first book of the series that will feature the work of Julian Sihombing.

Photobooks are on display at the gallery. (JP/Emir Prasetyo)It was also the official opening ceremony for the Photobook Month Exhibition, showcasing award-winning German photo books of 2012, and also its nominees. For more than 30 years, these awards are given by the German Publisher’s Association, Baden Wuerttemberg Chapter (Börsenverein des Deutschen Buchhandels, Landesverband Baden Württemberg).

As many as 197 photo books with a different range of themes and photographic styles are showcased as part of the exhibition and can be read and looked at by visitors. The works of James Atkinson, Michael Wolf, Yuef Machand and Vier Annaherungen are just some of the photo books exhibited.

— JP/Emir Prasetyo