We are thrilled to announce the First Edition of the Enugu Photo Festival, a cultural event that brings the rich history of Eastern Nigeria to life through the lens of photography. The festival, running from November 1st to 31st, 2024, will be hosted at the National Museum of Unity Enugu and curated by the Enugu Photo Community.
Although the Enugu Photo Festival was launched in 2023, this marks its first full edition. The theme for this year is “Shades of Coal”, with the tagline “Revisiting Time”. The festival will focus on Enugu’s coal mining history, exploring the socio-economic, cultural, and political impact of coal on the region’s development. Through the power of visual storytelling, the event will highlight the resilience of the mining communities and the legacy they left behind.
What to Expect in the First Edition
The Enugu Photo Festival will offer a diverse range of activities aimed at celebrating both the history and contemporary culture of Enugu:
- Photography Exhibitions: Stunning visual displays capturing the coal mining era and its impact on the development of Enugu.
- Artist Talks & Symposiums: Discussions on photography’s role in cultural preservation, alongside explorations of Enugu’s historical journey.
- Commemoration of the 75th Anniversary of the Iva Valley Massacre: A tribute to the miners who were central to Nigeria’s labor movement.
- Visits to Historic Sites: Including the Onyeama Palace
- “Road to Riches – The Railroad Track that Brought Gifts” Exhibition: This exhibition will explore the role of the railway in the development of Enugu and its significant contribution to transporting coal and fueling economic growth in the region.
Celebrating Our Heritage
The Enugu Photo Festival is a platform to celebrate the past, engage with the present, and envision the future of Enugu. By revisiting the coal mining era, the festival seeks to honor the miners and communities who shaped the region’s history and contributed to Nigeria’s independence.
This event offers a unique opportunity to explore the intersections of history, art, and storytelling. We invite you to join us on this journey as we “Revisit Time” and celebrate Enugu’s rich cultural and historical heritage through the power of photography.
Stay tuned for more information about the festival’s schedule, participating artists, and how you can be part of this exciting cultural event!