Workshop: Thaipusam 2013
JOIN US!
Gavin Gough and I would like to invite you to join us for our 2013 Thaipusam Workshop. Thaipusam is an event like few others. Colourful, vibrant, energetic and unique, Thaipusam offers photographers an opportunity to create a series of compelling images for their portfolio.
Following a 48-hour period of intense preparation, Hindu devotees will attend “kavadi”, often piercing their bodies with “vels”, large skewers and elaborate constructions of heavy burdens. The climax of the celebrations is a dramatic sight with an intensity rarely seen elsewhere.
Workshop philosophy
The purpose of our workshop is to go far beyond the usual tourist photographs. Participants will meet local families, spend time learning the traditions of Thaipusam, gaining a full appreciation of the significance of the festival. Each photographer will be assigned to a Thaipusam participant, photographing their journey through Thaipusam, creating a comprehensive series of images which will build into a cohesive body of work.
It’s a “work”shop
The significant part of our “workshop” is the “work” element. We will be on hand to guide, instruct and demonstrate the techniques of professional visual storytelling but the story is yours to tell. It is only through having built personal relationships with local people that we are able to achieve this level of interaction and we believe that this represents one of the strongest opportunities for an inside perspective on this unique festival.
There will be early starts. Very early starts. It is not unusual for us to be on the street, camera in hand at 4am on the main festival days and our work will continue back at the hotel at the end of the day.
Our philosophy is to try and create an environment where you can concentrate fully on creating your photographic story. Consequently, we take care of all the logistics; your meals, transport and communication requirements are our concern. Your job is to work hard and to fully engage with the event.
There will be an opportunity for an individual portfolio review during the week and there will be regular reviews and discussions aimed at helping you to quickly build your photographic skills.
If the prospect of an energised week where photography takes main stage appeals to you then our Thaipusam workshop will fit the bill. Don’t expect to come for a rest or a leisurely stroll around Penang. Thaipusam is an intense and memorable experience.
We hope to see you there,
