The Process
The LOBA Women Grant is directed at professional women photographers, 21 years of age and above. Differing from the two, already-existing LOBA awards, there is currently no selection process where proposals are submitted by nominators; rather the competition is determined by meaningful project outlines submitted freely by applicants. The women photographers can apply with a new project or with one that is already on-going. After the submissions phase is completed, the corresponding LOBA jury – which changes every year – will select the candidate and enable completion of the project in time for the following year’s round of the LOBA. The LOBA Women Grant series will then be part of the LOBA shortlist.
The LOBA Women Grant will be endowed with 10,000 euros. Furthermore, the selected applicant will receive a Leica Q and will be accompanied throughout the implementation and production phases.
The thematic focus is open, but should follow the LOBA guidelines, which recognise photographic series that address the complex, multifaceted relationship between humans and the environment. “In addition to a critical approach to our societal, ecological or political challenges, we want to encourage women photographers to submit projects that, in particular, present hopeful perspectives, document inspiring approaches to solutions, or reveal ways to bring about change. Series that encourage and illuminate positive changes, are also an important part of the discourse and are very welcome,” says Karin Rehn-Kaufmann who, as Art Director and General Representative of Leica Galleries International, manages the LOBA.