Arts and Culture

The Asia-Europe Forum for Young Photographers was held in Paris, France from 19th-24th November, 2005. After two years’ emphasis on photojournalism, this forum focused on young photographers with an experience and interest in organising photography-related events/projects (galleries, foundations, festivals, website etc). The 22 young photographers from 21 ASEM countries were selected by ASEF and its partners after an open call for applications sent through ASEF and its partners’ networks and websites.

The participants had the opportunity to introduce their portfolio and projects through a one-day ‘projects platform’ and to attend lectures and discussions by Vera Pechel, editor/designer for books related to photography; Ark Fongsmut, curator/lecturer and organiser of the Month of Photography, Bangkok, Thailand; Tomoko Yoneda, Japanese photographer based in London and Christian Caujolle, Founder and Director, Vu Gallery and Vu Agency, France.

The programme of presentations held at the European House of Photography was enriched by a one-day visit to Paris Photo and professional visits to Le Plateatu, Galerie Vu and Galerie Kamel Mennour.

All participants and resource persons acknowledged having greatly benefited from the forum and particularly in terms of sharing of new ideas, experiences and network. As a direct follow-up, 5 projects have were selected to be partially supported by ASEF for their development and implementation. This event was co-organised with the Maison Europeenne de la Photographie, Paris, France and AFAA, with the support of City of Paris, and in cooperation with Paris Photo.

ASEF's contribution is with the financial support of the European Commission.