May 2024 – Workshop Experience: Photography as A Tool for Self-Knowledge in Sofia, Bulgaria
We are thrilled with the experience we had in Bulgaria, where we led two workshops over two days using contemporary photography as a tool for self-knowledge.
This event, organized by Marina (@marnigregon) and Leti (@apostolovaleti), was held at Etud Gallery, in Sofia with two wonderful groups.
Photography as a Creative Experience
This face-to-face workshop was designed to explore how photography can be a powerful tool for self-knowledge and understanding our environment. Through the creation of images, we not only reflect what we see but also reveal who we are. This activity has focused on using photography to learn about contemporary artists who address universal values while also exploring our gaze to express authenticity and personal truth.
A Day of Self-Discovery
During the workshop, the two groups of participants explored how music, imagery, psychology, and photographic expression can serve as tools on our journey of self-discovery. From the very beginning, an atmosphere of collaboration and openness was cultivated. The collaborative projects allowed participants to share their expectations and prior experiences with photography. This initial interaction set the stage for a day full of personal discovery and human connection
The Activities We Did
The day was structured around several activities designed to deepen the understanding of contemporary photography as a tool for self-knowledge:
1. Discovering one’s own gaze through contemporary photography: We began with a brief talk about contemporary photography and how it can be used to explore our identity and emotions. Inspiring examples that told stories were shared, allowing us to experience each unique gaze.
2. Self-Portrait Exercises: The participants were invited to create self-portraits that captured not only their physical appearance but also aspects of their inner identity. This activity encouraged participants to reflect on how they perceive themselves and how they wish to be seen by others.
3. Artistic Interventions: Activities were conducted that combined photography with other art forms, such as music and writing, integrating visual and textual elements, thus exploring the intersection between the image and the word.
One of the workshop’s most enriching aspects was the interaction among participants. Throughout the day, personal stories were shared, fostering bonds of empathy and understanding. Photography served as a bridge between people of different backgrounds and experiences, facilitating a sincere and profound conversation about identity and expression.
We enjoyed the creative process, discovering new facets of ourselves and others. The combination of practical and reflective activities fostered meaningful learning and a renewed appreciation for photography as a tool for personal exploration.
This event in Sofia is only the beginning. At ANDANAfoto, we are committed to expanding these experiences globally. We have already conducted these workshops throughout Spain, as well as in Morocco and Ecuador, and we are eager to explore new opportunities for collaboration in other countries. We strongly believe in the transformative power of photography and are excited to bring this message to more places and people around the world.
We deeply appreciate everyone who made this event possible and all the participants who shared their unique gazes with us. We will continue to use photography not only as a means of artistic expression but as an essential tool for personal growth and mutual understanding.
For more information on future workshops and collaborations, please write to us at info@andanafoto.com and keep up to date with our upcoming activities through the ANDANAfoto newsletter.
