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As we prepare for the launch of the second edition of the EA Cup, the excitement is palpable among Exhibit Around Members. This unique knockout photographic tournament has brought our community together in ways we never imagined, offering not just competition but real-life opportunities and connections during the Trieste Photo Days Festival in Italy.
Last year’s winner, Ingrid Gielen, shared her experience and the profound impact the EA Cup had on her journey as a photographer. Ingrid, an amateur photographer from Sint-Truiden, Belgium, has always viewed photography as a way to observe rather than participate in the world around her. Winning the first EA Cup not only validated her artistic vision but also offered her the incredible opportunity to select a Top Jury Member for this year’s URBAN Photo Awards international photo contest. Ingrid chose the renowned Belgian photographer Harry Gruyaert, whose vibrant and colorful depictions of everyday life resonate deeply with her own aspirations in photography.
Ingrid describes her approach to photography and how it enriches her life in these words:
“Photography has become an integral part of my life. My pictures are mostly about all aspects of human life seen with a rather melancholic look. My work is usually built up in layers of time, emotions, and materials.“
One standout feature of the EA Cup is the “Best Voter” Award, which promotes active engagement in the voting process. Last year’s winner, Jose Gaston Barriga, demonstrated exceptional dedication and perseverance, ensuring the best photographs advanced. His commitment highlights the vital role of voters in maintaining a fair and quality-driven competition, while also deepening connections among members as they appreciate each other’s work.
At Exhibit Around, our contests and open calls aim to spark creativity and artistic growth. Last year’s theme, “Street Photography,” pushed photographers to capture the essence of urban life with unique perspectives. This year, we are excited to embrace the theme “Less is More,” a concept chosen by Nurlan Tahirli, who ranked second in last year’s contest. Nurlan’s selection reflects his belief in the power of minimalism across all photographic genres. As he describes, this year’s challenge is about discovering beauty in simplicity and conveying profound messages through fewer elements.
“We are used to seeing multi-elements and complex compositions in a photo. However, a great photo isn’t always about following the rules. Minimalism breaks some of these rules, and that ‘break’ is what makes it beautiful.”
Becoming an Exhibit Around member offers numerous benefits beyond participating in the EA Cup. Our community is enriched with various events, festivals, exhibitions, workshops, collaborations, and talks. As Nurlan expresses,
“Exhibit Around for me is immersing into the “sea” of photography with numerous events and projects. It’s a year-long excitement that keeps you in anticipation of new announcements.”
As our EA Members community grows each year, the EA Cup becomes more vibrant and diverse. This annual event showcases how photographers from around the world interpret the theme and how the popular vote determines the winners.
Below is a gallery showcasing the top 4 ranked photographs from the EA Cup 2023:
