Planet’s most important events within arm’s reach

Sony World Photography Awards features a Ukrainian photographer in the Current Affairs nomination. “I wanted to take part in a range of photo contests this year, but there was always something that prevented me from applying – a missed deadline here, unforeseen circumstances there; in the end, it was only this submission that went through,” says Vladyslav Musiienko. “Though I haven’t expected much sending my works here.”

Sony World Photography Awards is one of the largest photo contests in the world. This year more than 170,000 pictures from around 170 countries were submitted. The prize is 30,000 dollars and photo equipment. Only the photos taken in 2014 were accepted. Musiienko sent 10 pictures, all of them about Maidan, more specifically – about its most dramatic days. “Photos taken on Maidan were, perhaps, the best of mine in the past year,” says the photographer. “These photos were my attempt to bring the truth to the world about the strong, courageous, and brave people making the Ukrainian revolution and about the mutual help they supported each other with. I wanted to capture the image of Maidan people.”

Throughout his career Musiienko collaborated with many publications. Nowadays he works for UNIAN photo service. His international recognition came to him thanks to Den, as he has never missed a single Den’s Photo Contest since 2008, and won the Den’s Golden Award in 2009 for the Mourning Sisters. The last year’s Wedding Party by him received the special award of Israel Embassy in Ukraine. “Den’s Photo Contest is the most prestigious award in Ukraine,” asserts Musiienko. “It provides a perfect opportunity for a photographer to show their work, test their strength and appreciate the creative achievements of their colleagues.”

The artist believes that the recent events in our country encouraged the increased interest to Ukrainian photography in general. “The past year offered many work opportunities for the photographers – and not only to those who come from Ukraine. The planet’s most important events were taking place within the arm’s reach – one could make photos day and night. As a photo reporter, I had even envied myself, as I didn’t have to travel anywhere – just take the camera and go! But as a citizen I was aware of the tragedy unfolding. We witnessed the history in the making right before our eyes.” After Maidan, Musiienko’s work took him to the warzone in the east of the country. He admits that the job of photo reporter is appealing to him, as it offers both creativity and lifestyle.

The winners of Sony World Photography Awards will be selected by the experts of the World Photographic Academy. Their names will be revealed on April 23. We wish Vladyslav good luck!