Watch: From everyday life to war, how 400 photographers make you think at Sharjah exhibition – News

More than 2,500 unique visual stories told through the lens of 400 accomplished photographers are on display at the eighth Xposure International Photography Festival (Xposure 2024), which opened on Wednesday at Expo Center Sharjah.

Until March 5, Xposure 2024 takes visitors on a graphic journey that captures different perspectives and human emotions, from the mundane to the philosophical; from the joys of everyday life to human tribulations, wars and epic disasters. Some photos are dark and indirect, but others are serious and direct with their messages of hope, fear, love, hate, sadness, happiness, joy and celebration.

From portraits to nature and wildlife photography; Documentary and photojournalism, landscape, travel, adventure and sports, the visual elements attract visitors to stop, look and look through images frozen in a single moment in time for posterity.

Each image is also a testament to the emotion, perspective and intention of the photographer at the moment they pressed the button to capture the moment. And this is told during the workshops, talks and small group discussions spread throughout the week of the photography festival.

provocative thoughts

Some of the renowned photographers show up to talk to visitors and share their visual journey.

Hong Kong-born photojournalist Nicole Tung, who has been documenting the effects of war, humanitarian crises and natural disasters in the Middle East and other parts of the world, said: “Being here today is a necessary reminder of what the images can do to provoke thought.”

“What does it take for these images to be made? These are just some examples of the reality of the world we live in today. “These are the stories that should make us question what our place is in this world and what we can do collectively to protect it,” he added.

More than sharing images

Sheikh Sultan bin Ahmed Al Qasimi, Deputy Ruler of Sharjah and Chairman of the Sharjah Media Council, echoed the powerful role of photographers in advocating for pressing global issues. He said. “If images could speak, they would say, ‘I will amplify the efforts of those fighting for positive change.’ I will show injustice to pave the way for love and justice.’”

“An example is Gaza,” he added, noting: “The tragedy of more than two million people being besieged, hungry and constantly targeted, has pushed the entire world to reevaluate previously held beliefs about international values ​​and norms.” . the human rights system, the role of the individual in bringing about change and his humanitarian duty to others,” he added.

Xposure 2024 also paid moving tribute to more than 85 journalists and media workers who lost their lives trying to offer a glimpse into the lives of Palestinians besieged in a devastating war.

Stand firm in the truth

Al Qasimi noted: “The image has no impact unless it clings to the truth, and the story it conveys is resistant to falsification because it is a product of reality: the reality that photographers and the media community have shown us. , risking and even losing their lives to give a voice to those who do not have one and hope for a better future.”

Tariq Saeed Allay, Director General of Sharjah Government Media Office, added: “Xposure is a global celebration that highlights the mission of photographers to protect collective memory and expand human understanding of life.”

“In Sharjah, we have created a global platform that brings together the best photographers to reiterate the importance of photography and its practitioners. We are also fostering the talent and knowledge of the next generation of photographers. In today’s world, the demand for photographers who can faithfully reflect life and reality through their lenses is paramount, allowing us to witness beauty, truth and peace again,” he added.

Meanwhile, Xposure 2024 will host various events led by 150 of the world’s best photographers, as well as 90 individual and group exhibitions, as well as 65 workshops, 45 talks and 27 film screenings. There are also portfolio review sessions, book signings, and a trade show for photography equipment brands.

In addition to Xposure, there is an international photography contest with a prize pool of $60,000. More than 25,000 entries were received from various countries including China, India, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Russia, Germany, Italy, Brazil, Egypt, USA, UK and more for the categories of street photography, portrait, nature, landscape and mobile photography. .

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