Why a photo festival in Pelt?
A photo festival in Overpelt can give Pelt an identity far outside the town borders. Photography is a low-entry form of art which a lot of people practice. An image can be moving, touching. On top of that current (affordable) printing techniques allow for an outdoor exhibition. In France we saw an event that has been taking place for many years and that has put the village on the international map.
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The cultural centre of Palethe has already had experience with photography exhibitions thanks to the photography circuit and in-house photographers. A large scale photo festival like this, is the next logical step.
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What is it?
The aim of the festival is to have at least 500 photos in the streets of Pelt: against walls, in parks and on pillars in a route of approximately 2km. There will be some indoor locations such as Palethe, Pelle Melle, etc. Photos of 60 by 60 cm will be printed on aluminium dibond panels.
The theme of the exhibition is ‘Lens op de Mens’. It shows how Pelt cares about its people.
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Who is it for?
Keen amateur and professional photographers can enter this festival. All photos will be shown digitally on big screens or through projection. An international jury will grade the photos and select the ones that will be printed and shown in the streets. You can also win an award although they are symbolic rather than financial.
Anyone who is interested is welcome to visit. For children, there will be photo challenges.
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What does it mean for the inhabitants of Pelt?
The festival will bring the centre of town to life. Every inhabitant is invited to walk along the exhibition route. The festival will be a positive event and will make the inhabitants proud.
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Inhabitants with a passion for photography will be able to grow through the availability of good photos. Workshops will provide further development.
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How can inhabitants get involved?
Inhabitants are encouraged to volunteer in many ways: to help put up photos, to promote the event digitally, to translate, to welcome foreign photographers, to supervise and check exhibitions (even indoor locations). ​
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What happens to the photos after the festival?
Photos can be collected after the festival at the cultural centre of Palethe. Photos that are not collected will become property of the organization. There is no guarantee for the condition of the photos. A selection of about 50 photos will be kept and used afterwards at foreign exhibitions, for European projects or for sponsors.
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Do amateur photographers from Pelt have the chance to participate?
Amateur photographers from Pelt are encouraged to participate but can also be invited to support the festival through photography. For example we think about a photo stand for all inhabitants at the start of the event.
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Are there sponsors and partners?
There are sponsors and partners. We work together with the national federation of photographers and the centre of image expression supports our initiative. The province of Limburg is supporting the festival but we are always looking for extra sponsors.
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​Can I assist the organisation? Where do I send my suggestions?
All help is welcome. Sofie Scheelen will coordinate the project from the cultural centre of Palethe. You can send her your name through the website.
