FOR his Illustration Of Life exhibition, Max Kandhola photographed his father in the final stages of terminal illness.

On show at Impressions Gallery in York, his personal and honest images confront viewers with the intimate, painful reality of death.

Following his father's diagnosis with cancer, Kandhola spent two years collecting and photographing fragments and debris from his chemotherapy treatment: samples of blood, urine, hair and even the ash from his cremation.

Described by Impressions as "serenely beautiful", these abstract images form a counterpoint to the haunting final photographs taken at the bedside. Over six hours, Kandhola unwittingly captured the moment just before and after his father's death.

Society's attitude to death could make it difficult to view such images. However, Kandhola feels his Sikh background gives him a different perspective. "Death is a taboo subject in England, where the camera is brought out at times of rejoicing, such as weddings and Christenings," he says. "I want to show another side that speaks directly to the viewer about the need to feel at one with the final process of life."

Kandhola views his exhibition as a memorial to a much-loved father and an attempt to understand that loss. Tomorrow he will talk about his work at Impressions between 2pm and 5.30pm. Admission is free but booking is essential on 01904 654724.

This evening, he launches his accompanying book, Illustration Of Life (£20, hardback) in a 6pm signing session where copies will be available at the reduced price of £15.

Updated: 10:17 Friday, April 04, 2003