UK-China photography competition aims to showcase the best of China and the UK.
The ‘Beauty Across Borders: China-UK Photography Competition’ was officially unveiled on Wednesday, July 26, 2023 in London.
It intends to serve as a showcase of the beauty and cultural heritage of China. The competition also highlights the dynamic exchange between China and the UK. From the realms of economy, technology, culture, and more. The contest welcomes professionals and amateurs aged 18 and above from all corners of the world.
The organizers, sponsors, supporters, and media partners of the “Beauty Across Borders: China-UK Photography Competition” gather together for a group photograph on July 26 in London. [Zhu Ruoxi]
The competition is a collaborative effort. The China National Tourist Office, Nouvelles d’Europe UK Edition, and the Chinese Image Studio Shangtufang co-organised the competition. There is also special support from the Cultural Section of the Chinese Embassy in the UK. While professional support is provided by the Royal Photographic Society of Great Britain (RPS), the Global Photographic Union, the Sino European Arts in the UK and the Beijing-London Short Video Festival.
Entrants are invited to submit their artwork in three distinctive categories: Beautiful China, Splendid China, and Impressions of China and the UK.
Xue Ling, the Director of the China National Tourist Office in London, hosted the launch event. It was also graced with opening speeches from various esteemed professionals and guests.
Xue Ling, Director of the China National Tourist Office in London, hosts the launch ceremony on July 26 in London. [Zhu Ruoxi]
Minister Counselor Li Liyan, of the Cultural Section of the Chinese Embassy in the UK expressed: “We gather here today not only to embark on a fascinating journey to China through the lens of cameras but also to look forward to sharing remarkable pictures that showcase the beauty of the friendship between the peoples of China and the UK.”
Minister Counselor Bi Haibo, the Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in the UK was also present. He said that a single image can leave a lasting impression, fostering a deeper level of understanding.
He fondly recalled how a picture of a giant panda inspired a British friend to embark on a journey to China. Similarly, he shared the story of a photo of an oracle bone inscription. It had served as a catalyst for a distinguished British scholar to start studying this ancient form of Chinese writing.
Minister Counselor Bi Haibo, Spokesperson of the Chinese Embassy in London, giving his speech at the launch ceremony on July 26 in London. [Zhu Ruoxi]
“I have every reason to believe that the contest matches the actual substantial development of the China-UK bilateral relations,” said Minister Counselor Bi.
Li Qiang, the General Manager of the UK branch of Nouvelles d’Europe, discussed Sino-British relations. He pointed out that while strong there are ample opportunities for improving. He highlighted the significance of the competition to do this.
Dr. Michael Pritchard, the former Director of the Royal Photographic Society and current Project Director also spoke. He expressed how photography possesses a unique ability to bring people and countries together. He conveyed the delight of the Royal Photographic Society in supporting this event, emphasizing their belief in photography as a truly valuable and essential medium for breaking down barriers.
In an interview he said: “Now, we are out of the pandemic, Covid is to some extent, largely gone. We have had a number of opportunities to exhibit in China, so we are going to start to take advantage of that and show Chinese people what life in Britain is like.”
Dr. Michael Pritchard, the former Director of the Royal Photographic Society and current Project Director giving his speech at the launch ceremony on July 26 in London. [Zhu Ruoxi]
Tim Flach is President of the UK Association of Photographers and one of the judges. In an interview with China Minutes he expressed his hope to seeing images that can truly inspire people to build bridges between cultures.
Flach further offered some valuable insights for photographers. Recommending having a plan while taking pictures but also being open to surprises. He added: “the picture that surprises you might be the one that will surprise others as well.” Finnaly, that it is crucial to consider the bridge between China and the UK.
Currently, submissions are open, and photographers have the opportunity to submit their images for consideration until October 31.
The announcement of the winners is scheduled for December. Winning photographers will showcase their work in both digital (online) and physical exhibitions.
Notably exceptional images will be compiled into a commemorative album and featured in postcards.
For more details, participants can visit the official website at https://chinaukpc.com
If you liked this article why not read: Beauty Across Borders: China-UK Photography Competition
