Thousands submitted but only 12 were chosen.
The above line may somehow be a parody of that cliché we utter to emphasize excellence when talking about that thing called `calling.’ But the `bests’ of Epson Photo Imaging eXposition 2006 are no parodies at all. The photographers behind them were called and chosen because of the beauty, originality and soulfulness that their images show.
EPSON, a leading name in digital imaging technology, has certainly made the right decision to turn its photo competition into an annual affair, following last year’s successful debut launch. A great number of participants from all over the country, both professionals and enthusiasts, have joined in this year’s EPix challenge, pouring in entries for the two categories: `Vanishing Scenes’ and `The Filipino Achievers.’
Organized by One Workshop, Inc., a coffeetable art book was produced to showcase the top 200 photographs from among the thousands that competed. Twelve of these were adjudged winners. But the fact that all 200 photos are appearing in alphabetical order (based on the entrants’ surnames) is stressing the point that their inclusion means they’re no longer just entries vying for honors… they are themselves honored.
Over all, the judges were unanimous in their view that art of photography in the country is very much alive and vibrant. “I must say that they really upped the ante for this year”, Randy Kanapi, Marketing Head of EPSON opines, “They really took advantage of this years themes—Vanishing Scenes and The Filipino Achiever—and produced works that made the judging process more difficult for all of us.” Ed Santiago, Chairman of the Board of Judges, nods in agreement. “I’ve been a photojournalist for many years now and indeed, the works of the enthusiasts are already of professional grade.”
TOP 12 EPix06 WINNERS
Professional Division:
Filipino Achiever:
1st Place Artemio Layno - “Asin ng Buhay!” - Metro Manila
2nd Place Jesus “Susing” Tinapay - ” Gearing Up!” - Davao City
3rd Place Bien S. Bautista - ” Taho” - Metro Manila
Vanishing Scenes:
1st Place Carlito Felicen - “Vanishing Fan” - Cebu City
2nd Place Richard Larrios - “Bahay Kubo” - Metro Manila
3rd Place Rolando L. Jumawan - “Vintage Windows” - Davao City
Enthusiast Division:
Filipino Achiever:
1st Place Samuel P. De Leon - “Young Bontoc Weaver” - Metro Manila
2nd Place Pacita Tiong - “Productivity in Fishing Industries” - Metro Manila
3rd Place Leah M. Castillo - “Follow the Teacher” - Antipolo City
Vanishing Scenes:
1st Place Joaquin Babes Ruste - “The Ancient house” - Bacolod City
2nd Place Ma. Louisa C. Lopez - “Reflection of the Past” - Metro Manila
3rd Place Christian John B. Pascual - “Catdan Ku (Tinitirhan ko)” - Metro Manila
As the summation of a successful project, this annual photo competition hopes to continuously encourage the new breed of photographers to come up with something admirably competitive, while inspire even the deans of photography that no matter how prolific and experienced they are, possibilities always flow into an endless stream of beauty for them to still capture.
EPix06 Best 200 Images exhibit will run until November 15 at OWG G/Level 2241 La Fuerza Plaza II Don Chino Roces Avenue corner Sabio St Makati City. For details please contact Ross Capili at 09176273193 , 8192074 , email one_workshop@yahoo.com
CONGRATULATIONS TO ALL PARTICIPANTS, THE 200 FINALISTS, AND THE TOP TWELVE! SEE YOU ALL ON THE NEXT EPIX!
