Toys, an exhibition on until the end of the month and accompanying book, reveals some of the novel games, toys and improvised playthings of children in remote and impoverished parts of the world.

Universally kids use toys as a part of their development, and photographer Julio Etchart lets us glimpse some of the toys children play with to get an idea about the kind of the lives they lead.

A Uruguayan photojournalist, Julio was inspired by his own children's play to bring this work together over ten years while travelling the world on assignments for Non Governmental Organisations such as Save The Children, Oxfam, and UNICEF.

The exhibition takes place in Brighton throught June, with a private view and print auction on June 16.

10% of the proceeds from print sales during the exhibition will go to Save the Children.

The photographer explained his philosophy and reasons for completing the project, saying: "Play is precious to children. It is a time for growing and learning or just having fun. The toys children play with tell us much about their lives. Many poorer children can't take them for granted. They may have to work, or fight a war, or they are refugees on the run. Yet even in the worst situations you find children making do with wonderfully improvised toys made from tin cans, wire or wood, whatever they can lay their hands on."

The accompanying book, with text by Jeremy Seabrook and poetry by Imme Dros, is published by Pluto books, priced £17, and is available at the show.

Toys by Julio Etchart
June 7-30
Jennie Ricketts Gallery
8 Arundel Mews
Brighton
BN2 1GD
www.jenniericketts.com

The private view and print auction in association with Save The Children takes place on June 16 from 3pm-6pm

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