Essay for the Future: Considering the present as we imagine and build the future together.

For the 33rd edition of Encontros da Imagem, we wish to explore the challenges that the world continues to experience and keep up the necessary conversations on topics such as representation, inclusion, environmental sustainability, the politics of everyday life, and the power of change held by social movements. There is an urgent need to stop and listen. While democracy weakens and extremists gain ground in the frenzy of both virtual and real life, we wish to take a step back and think of new forms of organization, ways of life, and creation.

Encontros da Imagem returns to Braga this year between September 15 and October 28, with a new leadership and an approach that looks forward while using the past as guidance. With exhibitions also in Porto, Guimarães, and Barcelos, we hope to democratize photography for its fruition and creation — and to hear both the individual and collective experience.

Our first open call of the year is open for submissions between March 7 and April 23. Join us in making the future.