LOST INNOCENCE is an evocative piece created after Bran’s challenging trip to Sierra Leone where he interviewed and photographed child soldiers and teenagers.

The messages on the love heart sweets in this artwork are drawn from interview responses, he asked them about their actions, their reasons for being there, and who they would die for. At the time of the interviews all Bran had in his pocket were love heart sweets which he shared out to the children.

During the Sierra Leone Civil War (1991-2002), an estimated 10,000-14,000 children were forced into combat, fighting on both sides. Nearly half of the Revolutionary United Front (RUF) and a quarter of the government armed forces comprised children aged 8-14, with the AK-47 being the predominant weapon used.

BULLET FILLINGS:

• Three Origami Doves:

• Money

• Pearls

• Sweet Wrapper

• Diamonds

• Milk Bottle

• Sand

• 7.62mm

This artwork poignantly captures the harsh realities faced by child soldiers and the profound impact of conflict on their lives, urging viewers to reflect on these pressing issues.