Prix Pictet announces shortlist for 10th cycle ‘Human’

Media release · 06 Jul 2023

0 min read

The shortlisted series feature a diverse response to the theme Human, exploring the plight of indigenous peoples, conflict, childhood, the collapse of economic processes, the traces of human habitation, gang violence, border lands, and migration. The shortlist includes work by 12 photographers from 11 countries.

Instead of the future of photography, I like to think about photography for the future. The power of the image lies in its ability to foreground critical and urgent environmental issues in a visually impactful yet direct way. With every cycle, we see innovative ideas, narrative approaches as well as technical experimentations. It is extremely exciting to work with forward-looking creatives, who are not just passionate about their medium but about leaving a positive legacy in our world. For us at the Prix Pictet, we are committed to our goal of changing and shaping our future planet for the better, through harnessing the power of photography.

— Isabelle von Ribbentrop, Executive Director, Prix Pictet

Prix Pictet is delighted to reveal the 12 photographers shortlisted for Human, the theme of its tenth cycle. Announced at an evening screening at the Théâtre Antique on Thursday 6 July 2023 as part of the opening week of Les Rencontres d’Arles International Photography Festival by Executive Director of Prix Pictet, Isabelle von Ribbentrop, the shortlisted photographers are:

Hoda Afshar, Iran
Gera Artemova, Ukraine
Ragnar Axelsson, Iceland
Alessandro Cinque, Italy/Peru
Siân Davey, UK
Gauri Gill, India
Michał Łuczak, Poland
Yael Martínez, Mexico
Richard Renaldi, US
Federico Ríos Escobar, Colombia
Vanessa Winship, UK/Bulgaria
Vasantha Yogananthan, France

Shortlisted series

As the most dominant species on Earth, humans shape and are shaped by the world around us. The human theme allows photographers to delve into the vast spectrum of human experiences, emotions, relationships, and challenges that define our collective existence.

The theme enables photographers to shed light on critical issues affecting our planet and its inhabitants. From social injustices to environmental crises, exploring the human condition can serve as a powerful tool to raise awareness and inspire change.

The human impact on our fragile planet is awful to contemplate. Our relationship with the natural world is fractured and out of balance. We are justifiably proud of technological progress and economic growth, yet these advances take little or no account of the state of our ecosystem. These and many other themes were touched on by the nominated artists with considerable artistic skill and I should like to pay tribute to the work of the Jury who have selected such a diverse and outstanding group of artists.

— Sir David King, Chair of the Prix Pictet jury

As the Prix Pictet marks its 10th cycle, the choice of the human theme signifies a reflection on the journey thus far. It encapsulates the evolution of the prize, acknowledging the central role of humanity in shaping the sustainability discourse. The theme invites us to engage deeply with our shared humanity and reevaluate our roles as stewards of the planet.

Media enquiries

Nicole Sireilles at Sutton
nicole@suttoncomms.com

Prix Pictet: Human

Victoria and Albert Museum, Cromwell Road, London SW7 2RL
www.vam.ac.uk/info/prix-pictet

29 September - 22 October 2023

Admission free

Twitter: @PrixPictet
Instagram: @Prix_Pictet
Facebook.com/prixpictet

Prix Pictet official website

Prix Pictet announces shortlist for 10th cycle ‘Human’

Prix Pictet announces shortlist for 10th cycle ‘Human’

Media enquiries

Welcome to Pictet