Applications due: January 31, 2015
The WYNG Masters Award Commission (WMA Commission) invites entries for proposals from artists and photographers from both Hong Kong and the international community, to create new photo-based work in Hong Kong, focusing on the theme of waste. A three-member Selection Panel will choose the WMA Commission recipient, who will be awarded a 250,000 HKD grant which will contribute towards production of the successful proposal and a public event featuring the completed work.
With a commitment to programmes and activities that foster deeper understanding of issues facing Hong Kong, the 2014/2015 WMA Commission brings the issue of waste to the forefront. By facilitating and supporting original, creative interpretations of a significant environmental concern, the WMA Commission encourages a unique perspective on how Hong Kong is affected by an issue that has global implications, while increasing public awareness and knowledge. “Hong Kong is a natural stage for this type of programme,” explains Belinda Winterbourne, CEO of the WYNG Foundation and organiser of the WMA Commission. “As a dynamic, international city, Hong Kong faces challenges that resonate with other metropolitan centers around the world. When we see the impact of issues such as poverty or waste on Hong Kong, we also see how they will play out in other urban areas. What happens in Hong Kong has global relevance.”
With an issue as complex as waste, the WMA Commission provides the means for a more focused commitment to the subject through a visual approach. Ultimately, the aim is to bring clarity and understanding on an issue which has serious consequences for Hong Kong, and the rest of the world.
The newly designated WMA Commission better reflects the diverse and multidimensional nature of the WMA programme, which has evolved in recent years to include the grant, the WYNG Masters Award, a series of professional development workshops, a talks programme and student engagement projects. First launched in 2012/2013, the inaugural theme of the programme was poverty, in recognition of Hong Kong’s struggle with a yawning income gap. Air was the theme in the second year, where Hong Kong’s deteriorating air quality was the topic for contemplation. The mission of the WMA programme is to stimulate discussion and encourage the development of social responsibility in Hong Kong. It aims to support and encourage the evolution of photography as an art form in the territory, while at the same time using the medium to consider and discuss pressing social issues facing Hong Kong.
The WMA Commission is open to experienced and professional photographers and visual artists who reside and practice anywhere in the world. Entries must be submitted by January 31, 2015 and will be reviewed by a selection panel which determines a shortlist of applicants to be interviewed in March 2015. The selection panel includes Fung Ho Yin, Assistant Professor, School of Design, Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Dr. Charles Merewether, Visiting Professor, School of Art, Design and Media, Nanyang Technological University Singapore and member of Commissioning Panel for Venice Biennale Singapore Pavilion 2015; and a trustee from the WYNG Foundation.
About the WYNG Masters Award (WMA) programme
The WMA programme is multi-dimensional and includes the WYNG Masters Award, the WMA Commission, the WMA Open Photo Contest, a series of professional development workshops, talks programmes and student engagement projects. A non-profit, the programme was developed to generate awareness and engage the public on socially relevant issues of great importance to Hong Kong. The focus of the current 2014/2015 cycle of the WMA Programme is the theme of waste. The upcoming theme to be launched June 2015 for the 2015/16 cycle will be identity.
The International New York Times is the exclusive media partner of the WYNG Masters Award; Widerhall Fine-Art Photographic is the official exhibition partner; and Panorama is the virtual tour partner.
For application process and grant details: wyngmastersaward.hk
Enquiries: commission [at] wyngmastersaward.hk
