If you live in Belgium or if you happen to be in The Netherlands, France or Germany anywhere near Liege/Luik/Lüttich, then you might want to drop by BIP2010, the 7th International Biennial of Photography and Visual Arts because it is one of the most exciting events i’ve seen in a while (and yes, i’m aware i write that a lot but i always mean it you see.) This year’s theme is (Out of) Control. It oscillates between the cheerful and the somber, between the mundane and the extraordinary. I’ll get back to you with a proper report but i couldn’t help singling out a quirky series of photos i discovered at the biennial.

Thomas Mailaender, Acrobatic Squad, 2004

As The Acrobatic Squad demonstrates, Thomas Lailaender has a soft spot for the absurd. He shot a special motorcycle unit of the Préfecture de Police de Paris in full acrobatic mode as they were practicing their hobby at the Bourget military base.

Thomas Mailaender, Acrobatic Squad, 2004

BIP2010, the 7th International Biennial of Photography and Visual Arts takes place all over the city of Liege until April 24, 2010.