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Open photography contest gets close to 200 entries
In just a week, close to 200 entries have been submitted to Best Sunshine Live’s open photography competition.
“We are really happy about the number of submissions. I think it really reflects the interest of the public and the attention from the public in terms of the recovery and the whole relief and recovery effort,” Best Sunshine International, Ltd. chief services officer Tao Xing said.
Xing said five judges will be looking at the entries but they may have to add some people to make sure they have full representation.
The awarding ceremonies as well as the presentation of the artwork are now in the works.
“The committee will discuss to make sure that we have a sort of proper process for the submissions and make sure that all of the artists and the work, their efforts are recognized,” Xing said.
For Xing, Typhoon Soudelor’s effects in the CNMI is part of its history and that moments showing the resiliency of the people as they recover should be treasured and documented.
“All these moments are really uplifting. I think this really reflects the spirit of the island, of the people,” Xing said.
He said he was inspired after seeing a bunch of flame tree flowers still attached to a downed tree a day after Typhoon Soudelor.
“I thought that was a great symbol of resiliency. How did that bunch of flowers survive those winds? That really had a visual impact on me,” he said.
He added that he was able to see some of the entries and is looking forward to seeing all of them.
“Putting together the picture, the caption, telling a story, some of them really moved me,” Xing said.
“My concern is these are all really good stories. How do we make sure that they come out right. I think the competition is one platform,” he added.
Xing said they are also thinking about some other platform where people who are deeply involved in recovery can tell their stories.
“We’re welcome to any ideas in terms of how to really value the artworks, the artists,” Xing said.
