The Istanbul Photo Awards 2024 exhibition was inaugurated at the CerModern Art Center, with the participation of significant figures. Serdar Karagöz, President and CEO of AA, as well as the Ambassadors of Palestine, Serbia, and Nicaragua to Ankara – Faed Mustafa, Aca Jovanovic, and Tatiana Daniela Garcia, respectively – attended the opening. The speeches during the event highlighted the deep meanings behind the photographs and emphasized the humanitarian drama.
Serdar Karagöz: “We Are Witnesses to Genocide”
In his speech at the opening, Serdar Karagöz pointed out that the genocide committed by the Israeli government against the Palestinian people has been displayed daily on televisions, newspapers, and digital platforms across the world. He specifically drew attention to the photograph by Palestinian photographer Mohammed Salem, titled “Palestinian Woman Holding the Dead Body of Her Nephew,” which won first place in the Istanbul Photo Awards. Karagöz emphasized that this photograph would leave a lasting mark on history and would ensure that this genocide is never forgotten. He also mentioned that the photo not only affects the victims but has also created a trauma that affects the entire world.
Photographs as Evidence of Genocide and the Voice of Conscience
Karagöz described photography as a powerful tool to awaken conscience, with journalists documenting war crimes and genocides through their photographs. He highlighted how AA continues to be the voice of conscience, documenting these truths through its books and documentaries titled “Proof,” “Witness,” and “Accused.” He also noted that Istanbul Photo Awards has grown into a significant platform that brings together photos that witness history.
Istanbul Photo Awards: One of the World’s Most Prestigious Photography Competitions
Karagöz stated that the Istanbul Photo Awards has become one of the most prestigious photography competitions in the world. He mentioned that over 20,000 photos from 118 countries were submitted in 2024, with awards granted in 10 categories. These photographs hold great historical value. Additionally, he reminded the audience that submissions for the 2025 edition would end on January 10, and invited photographers from around the world to participate in the competition.
Visitors’ Impressions and Moving Reactions
Aca Jovanovic, the Ambassador of Serbia to Ankara, shared his impressions of the exhibition, stating that the photographs reflected a great tragedy and deep pain. He expressed his respect for the photographers and mentioned that the winning photo in the competition had a profound impact on him.
Acknowledgements and Supporters
Karagöz extended his thanks to CerModern Art Center, TİKA, Sony, THY, and Turkcell for their support of the Istanbul Photo Awards. Along with all the attendees, the photographers and their showcased works provided an unforgettable experience for the visitors.