2023 European Photography Awards: Photographers of the Year

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August 31, 2023

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September 4, 2023

Published by Sean at September 1, 2023

Photographers embark on a quest to seize breathtaking visuals, driven by a fusion of artistry, unwavering passion, and the power of storytelling – an endeavour that encapsulates the essence of artistic expression.

The 2023 European Photography Awards is honoured the acclaimed Photographers of the Year!

Ghost of Asaro | Jatenipat Ketpradit

The Acclaimed Photographers of the 2023 European Photography Awards

From the mystic heart of Papua New Guinea's Eastern Highlands emerges a tribe unlike any other – the Asaro Mudmen. These custodians of tradition hail from the ethereal Asaro Valley, where their performances are steeped in an aura of intrigue and enigma. Their hallmark lies in the peculiar clay masks they don, masterpieces that have garnered global acclaim for their haunting allure.

Entwined with this artistry is a saga that resonates like a tribal heartbeat. Envision this: a tribe, besieged by foes, seeks sanctuary in a river's embrace. Emerging, cloaked in the embrace of mud, they present an apparition that chills even the bravest of souls. These invaders, mistaking them for spirits, retreat in terror, gifting the Asaro people an unblemished escape. Thus, the saga unfurls, birthing clay masks mirroring those mud-caked visages – armor of both safeguard and mystique.

Jatenipat portrays the Asaro Mudmen in all their glory, behind masks that were forged from the earth’s resources, adorned with hyperbolic traits – eyes like galaxies and teeth that gleam like shards of moonlight. The series of ‘Ghost of Asaro’ takes us into another side of the world where the world can appreciate the beauty of history and respect the efforts taken to keep traditions alive. The photographs portray a sense of art, regal, tradition that is beautifully highlighted that will only take one’s breath away.

With the passage of years, the Asaro Mudmen have metamorphosed into an emblem of Papua New Guinea's heritage, a lustrous gem in the crown of its tourism tapestry. Their mesmerizing dance comes alive at cultural gatherings, festivals, and showcases that span the globe. Indeed, the mask's singular semblance and the myth it embodies have bewitched hearts, casting an enchantment felt across continents.

Jatenipat Ketpradit's photography delves into the realm of the extraordinary, skillfully capturing the haunting essence and enigmatic allure of the Asaro Mudmen with an artistic finesse that resonates like a whispered legend. This mastery of visual storytelling led Ketpradit to rightfully claim the prestigious title of Photographer of the Year within the Professional Category, a testament to their unparalleled ability to encapsulate the essence of the Asaro Mudmen through the lens of their artistry.

Resilient mothers | João Coelho

In the rich tapestry of Angolan society, women hold a special place as mothers, embodying a role that is deeply intertwined with cultural values and traditions. Their motherhood extends beyond the biological act of giving birth, encompassing a broader sense of nurturing, guidance, and care that shapes not only their own families but also the larger community. Angolan women often serve as pillars of strength, passing down wisdom, cultural heritage, and a spirit of resilience to future generations.

However, amid these cultural norms, there exists a complex dynamic when it comes to the division of household labor. Traditional gender roles still persist, leading to an unequal burden placed upon women for domestic chores and caregiving responsibilities. This situation is reflective of broader global patterns where women disproportionately shoulder the responsibilities of maintaining the home and raising children, even as they engage in various other roles within society.

João Coelho highlights with a series of images proving that gender roles are deeply entrenched and underscores a need for change and progress. Acknowledging the vital contributions of Angolan women as mothers and recognizing the inequality in the division of household labor is a crucial step toward creating a more equitable society. Encouraging husbands to share in household tasks not only alleviates the burden on women but also acknowledges the multifaceted roles that both men and women play in today's world.

As society evolves, discussions surrounding gender roles and domestic responsibilities become increasingly important. By challenging traditional norms and promoting a more balanced distribution of household labor, a more inclusive and empowered environment can be fostered, benefiting families, communities, and the broader societal fabric of Angola.

Through João Coelho lens, women emerge as resilient warriors, deftly navigating the delicate dance of providing for their families while steadfastly nurturing their children. This achievement bestowed Calhou with the esteemed honor of Photographer of the Year within the amateur category – a truly deserved recognition for his ability to capture compelling art that resonates deeply.