At the time of limited exposure due to the pandemic, “Things That Count” wants to convey a positive message by creating an international network of young photographers to reflect on what is considered meaningful today.
“Things That Count” is an online photography collaboration program between young photographers living in Vietnam and Europe. Within 10 weeks from March to May 2021, students of the Faculty of Photography from the Royal Academy of Fine Arts (Belgium) discussed online with a group of young photography lovers in Vietnam about daily topics that are essential in modern society. The 10 “values” include family, security, gender, heritage, intimacy, power, knowledge, and faith.
A Work at the Exhibition. Photo: Organizing Committee
In the time of uncertainty due to the Covid-19 pandemic, young people are facing an uncertain future and existential questions. The groups of students are assigned a topic of “value” each week, then discuss in pairs, exchange inspiration, and take a photo that represents their personal view of that value. Pictures and conversations among them were posted online to spread their views and since then, many friendships have been formed. A part of the work from the project was exhibited at the Matca Space for Photography with support from the Belgian Embassy in Vietnam.
The 16 participants included: Hoang Minh Trang, Ana Lucía Fernández, Catherine Smet, Nguyen Van Nhi, Pham Ha Huy Anh, Daria Oprean, Eduard Michalko, Nguyen Minh Hoang, Kien Hoang, Moritz Broszat, Tran Vinh Dat, Robert Sasarman, Cao Nguyen Huy Hoang, Sarah Kirchner, Oxiea Villamonte and Nguyen Thanh Hue.
Phuong Mai