I recently completed a one-month scholarship at the Alexandra Boulat Campus of the VII Foundation in Arles, organised by the VII Academy.
The programme supports issue-driven journalism, viewing publication and exhibition not as the ultimate goal, but as a point of departure. The programme offered an intensive, practice-oriented seminar in non-fiction storytelling, combining photography, writing, and time-based media.
During the month, we explored the ethical and aesthetic considerations involved in representing other people and cultures, engaged with communities in Arles, and worked closely with an exceptional team of tutors, including Gary Knight, Philip Blenkinsop, David Campbell, Ilvy Njiokiktjien, Ziyah Gafic, Fiona Turner, and Yonola Viguerie.
It was a powerful and transformative experience, filled with learning, growth, meaningful exchanges, intimate moments, and lots of fun in the company of truly inspiring people.
Many thanks to the VII Foundation for making this journey possible.
