A Memorable Journey: My Experience at Just Women Milan
March 14, 2024Last September, I embarked on what would become one of the most enriching experiences of my photography career—participating in the Just Women exhibition in Milan, Italy. Just Women (curated by Slavica Veselinovic) was a featured segment of the ImageNation exhibition (curated by Martin Vegas). This event not only marked my first visit to the enchanting country of Italy but also presented a unique opportunity to share my work alongside a diverse group of talented photographers from across the globe. The exhibition was held at the Fondazione Luciana Matalon.
The vibrant city of Milan, known for its rich art history and dynamic cultural scene, served as the perfect backdrop for this international exhibition. Each photographer, including myself, brought to the table a unique perspective, encapsulated within our photographs, turning the event into a mosaic of stories told through the lens of our cameras. The variety was staggering, with each piece narrating a different tale, echoing the sentiment that every photograph is a window into another world.
Traveling from the USA to Italy for the first time was, in itself, a journey filled with awe and inspiration. Stepping into Milan, I was immediately engulfed by the beauty and the architectural marvels that dot the cityscape. This scenic view set the stage for an incredibly impactful exhibition experience at ImageNation.
The opening day of the entire exhibition was graced by the presence of renowned personalities, including the celebrated photographer Damon Baker and the illustrious actress, Alice Pagani. Damon’s participation in the exhibition and his striking images of Alice added a layer of glamour and intrigue to the event, captivating the attendees.
The Just Women segment presented a powerful collection of works by women photographers, each piece echoing the unique experiences, strengths, and vulnerabilities of women across different cultures and contexts. Being invited to this part of ImageNation was an honor that made the experience even more special.
On the final day of the exhibition, I participated in an artist talk. While public speaking is not my forte, making it a nerve-wracking proposition, the presence of industry stalwarts like Alessia Glaviano, the Head of Global PhotoVogue and Director of the Photo Vogue Festival, elevated the stakes. Meeting Alessia, however, was a pleasant surprise. She was incredibly approachable and engaging, making my nervousness dissipate in our short conversation.
Reflecting on my journey to Milan and my participation in the Just Women exhibition, I am filled with gratitude for the opportunities it afforded me. The chance to connect with like-minded individuals, share insights, and immerse myself in diverse photographic narratives has enriched my perspective, both as a photographer and as an individual. This experience has left an indelible mark on my heart, fueling my passion for photography and inspiring me to continue exploring the world through my camera lens.
Did you enjoy my photography adventure? If you’re curious to see more or thinking about snagging a print for your collection, head over to my website www.zenassidyphotography.com. There’s so much more to explore; perhaps the perfect piece is just waiting for you. Plus, don’t forget to subscribe for the latest updates and exclusive content. Let’s keep this journey alive together – I’d love to welcome you into our growing community! See you there!
This is my first blog post. Hopefully, this will be the first of many. I hope you enjoyed the read.
Peace and love,
Renee Daley ❤️