Photography Workshop Creates a Buzz in Malaysia

Justin and his local photographic protégés. (U.S. Embassy photo)

Justin presenting a ThinkTank camera bag to the most promising photographer, Mr. Steven Goh. Also in the picture is Mr. Pang Khee Teik, Arts Director of the Central market Annexe. (U.S. Embassy photo)

American Photojournalist Justin Mott, recipient of the Marty Forscher Fellowship for humanistic photography, conducted a five-day “Advanced Visual Storytelling” Photo Workshop for some of Malaysia's most promising photographers from NGOs and the Malaysian mainstream media from December 5 - 9, 2011.  The objective of the workshop is to enhance the Malaysian photographer’s skills in visual storytelling. The workshop is part one of a two-part grant by the U.S. embassy to Central Market Annexe (a local cultural hub promoting arts and human rights) to train and hone the skills of the 10 Malaysian photographers so that they could effectively elevate their stories through visual artistry. The second  part of the grant will facilitate the exhibition of the Malaysian photographers’ works in Kuala Lumpur and at the eight Lincoln Corners nationwide in 2012.

Throughout his five-day workshop numerous Malaysian photographers dropped by to share their portfolios and to seek the artist’s comments and advice.  Justin Mott’s reputation and physical presence created a buzz in the local Malaysian photography scene, and many eagerly anticipate his return next year.