Mumbai, Celebrate Photography This Weekend With Workshops, Panel Talks, Books, & More

Photography, once a static medium confined to capturing the world as it unfolded, has blossomed into a multifaceted art form. From the adrenaline-pumping world of sports to the glamorous realm of fashion, from the untamed beauty of wildlife to the raw authenticity of street photography, the camera's eye has explored it all. Self-portraits have become intimate reflections, while documentary photography chronicles the human experience with unflinching honesty. The medium has evolved into a powerful tool for archiving history, preserving memories, and sparking social change.

To celebrate this extraordinary evolution, Open Call India (OCI) and Editions Jojo are hosting a World Photography Day extravaganza at the Ministry of New in Mumbai this weekend. This event promises to be a visual feast; showcasing the diverse talents of photographers and offering a platform for engaging discussions about the art form. There'll be something for every photography enthusiast.

The festivities kick off with a book binding workshop conducted by the founder of the publishing imprint and platform Editions JOJO, Kaamna Patel. In the workshop, participants will have the unique opportunity to learn the art of transforming their cherished photographs into tangible keepsakes through Japanese book binding techniques. Limited to 15 participants, registration is priced at Rs. 2000 per person and includes all necessary materials.

Following the workshop, renowned photographers Ritesh Uttamchandani and Ipshita Maitra will take center stage for a panel discussion moderated by curator Veerangana Solanki. The artists will share their photographic journeys and the intricacies of photobook publishing. The panel will also delve into the connections between the artists' works and broader questions shaping the Indian photobook landscape. Following the discussion, you can meet the photographers and get your copies of their books signed. Tickets for the panel discussion are priced at Rs. 500 per person.

Additionally, you can take a break with a cup of coffee or lemonade and immerse yourself in a world of words in the reading room/ pop-up bookshop. Tune into the Glass Eye Podcast or explore the curated reading room meticulously assembled by artist and curator Vishwa Shroff. Shroff's artistic lens, focused on the interplay between drawing and architectural forms, offers a unique perspective on memory and materiality. Her book selection from the JOJO library complements this exploration. Featuring a curated collection of artist books from India and across the globe, the room offers a diverse range of perspectives. Explore works by renowned artists such as Bindi Vora, Reliable Copy, Anurag Banerjee, and many more.

The event will be held at the Ministry of New, located on the 3rd floor of Kitab Mahal, Azad Maidan in the Fort area of Mumbai. Don't miss this chance to connect with fellow photography enthusiasts, explore the world of visual storytelling, and celebrate the art form in all its glory. Check the timings for each of the events below and get your tickets here. 

Event Information

Date: August 17, 2024

Time: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM

 * Book Binding Workshop: 12:00 PM - 1:30 PM 

 * Panel Discussion: 3:00 PM - 4:30 PM 

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