As the curtains draw on yet another exciting edition of the Wiki Loves Folklore and Feminism & Folklore 2024 Campaign, we take a moment to reflect on the powerful stories, cultural practices, and rich traditions captured by talented photographers from around the world. This year’s campaign highlighted the beauty of folklore and underrepresented voices in feminism, ensuring that diverse cultures and traditions continue to thrive in our digital archives.
From the bustling rice mills of Bangladesh to the ancient traditions of Myanmar’s fishing communities, the winning images tell stories of resilience, joy, and heritage. They allow us to peek into communities where folklore is woven into the very fabric of daily life. Let’s explore the categories of this campaign;
Top 3 Winning Images: Stories of Tradition and Resilience
First Winning Image
In this heartwarming first-place photograph, Azimronnie captures a delightful moment of childhood joy in Brahmanbaria, Bangladesh. In an imaginative twist, a rice mill has been transformed into a vibrant playground where 2 children weave through towering cones — known as topas — designed to protect drying rice. The scene is alive with energy as the children roll bicycle tyres and dart around, embodying the innocence and exuberance of youth.
Juror Camelia Boban praised this image as a “perfect photo that captures the essence of rural life in Bangladesh.” The vibrant colors and dynamic composition evoke a deep sense of nostalgia, transporting viewers back to their childhoods. Beyond mere play, the photograph reflects the resilience of a community that creatively transforms its surroundings into joyful spaces. It celebrates the beauty of simplicity and the deep sense of community inherent in rural life, reminding us of the joy found in childhood and the bonds formed through shared experiences.
Second Winning Image
In this captivating photograph, Tapas Kumar Halder captures the intricate makeup of a folk dancer as they prepare for an upcoming performance, showcasing the rich tapestry of Indian folk culture. Dance, music, and storytelling are deeply intertwined in Indian traditions, and this image beautifully reflects the pride and cultural significance of these art forms. The dancer, adorned in traditional attire, embodies the essence of centuries-old customs, highlighting the vibrant narratives that folk arts convey across different regions of India.
Juror Camelia Boban acknowledged the technical excellence of the photograph, appreciating its cultural significance and the elaborate makeup that represents a vital aspect of Indian identity. However, she noted that the theme felt somewhat familiar, having encountered similar representations in previous editions of the competition. Despite this observation, the image serves as a poignant tribute to the diverse expressions of Indian folk culture, emphasizing the importance of preserving these traditions as they continue to thrive in the modern world.
Third Winning Image
Set against the tranquil landscape of Myanmar, this stunning photograph offers a glimpse into the ancient fishing practices passed down through generations. The image depicts fishermen utilizing traditional techniques, surrounded by serene waters reflecting soft natural lighting. The harmonious composition not only captures the scene’s beauty but also tells a compelling story of perseverance and a deep connection with nature.
Juror Camelia Boban lauded the photo as “an extremely good quality image,” praising its originality and ability to shed light on the underrepresented fishing traditions of Myanmar. She noted how the image elegantly portrays a way of life that is on the brink of extinction, emphasizing the critical importance of preserving such cultural practices for future generations. Through its captivating storytelling and serene aesthetics, this photograph encapsulates a timeless tradition that deserves to be recognized and cherished.
Top 10 Winning Images: A Diverse Tapestry of Cultural Expressions
Set in a remote village in Rajasthan, India, this touching photograph captures a quiet moment of everyday life. A man, absorbed in sewing clothes, shares a conversation with his wife. The vibrancy of their surroundings, despite the simplicity of their home, underscores the richness of their humble existence and the joy they find in each other’s company.
Juror Pierre André Leclercq highlighted how the image masterfully captures the essence of cultural heritage. Though their material possessions are few, the couple’s quiet happiness radiates through the frame, telling a story of contentment, peace, and a deep human connection that transcends wealth.
In this captivating image, the vibrant spirit of the Dinagyang Festival in Iloilo, Philippines, comes to life. Performers are captured in motion, wearing intricate costumes and traditional body paint, celebrating the rich cultural and religious heritage of the festival. Their movements convey the energy, passion, and deep-rooted devotion that the festival embodies.
Juror Nwonwu Uchechukwu P commended the photograph for its authenticity and artistic composition. The dynamic expressions of the dancers, paired with the vibrant colours and lighting, evoke a sense of liveliness and cultural pride. The image offers a unique and immersive glimpse into one of the Philippines’ most celebrated festivals.
This breathtaking image captures the ancient martial art of Kalaripayattu, originating from Kerala, India, in the heat of action. A fighter is frozen mid-air during a powerful strike, displaying the extraordinary agility, balance, and discipline that are central to this traditional combat form. The movement of the airborne fighter contrasts sharply with the poised, grounded defender, adding tension and drama to the scene.
Juror Nwonwu Uchechukwu P praised the image for its compelling composition, emphasizing the dynamic interplay between the fighters. The natural setting serves as a timeless backdrop, enriching the visual storytelling and evoking admiration for Kalaripayattu’s enduring legacy.
In this striking image, a craftsman is captured fully absorbed in his work at a traditional cotton mill in Kültür, Turkey. The piles of cotton surrounding him highlight the enduring importance of this ancient craft in the region, symbolizing not just the work itself but the cultural heritage passed down through generations. His quiet concentration reflects the skill and care that goes into each stage of the milling process.
Juror Nwonwu Uchechukwu P commended the photograph for its strong narrative, noting the craftsman’s intent expression and the intricate details of the milling process. The balanced lighting and soft tones evoke a sense of intimacy, offering a serene yet powerful portrayal of a time-honoured craft that is slowly fading.
This intimate portrait showcases an Apatani woman from Arunachal Pradesh, India, known for the distinctive facial tattoos and nose plugs worn by the women of her tribe. These adornments carry immense cultural and historical significance, symbolizing the resilience and deep-rooted traditions of the Apatani people. The photograph captures not only the physical markings of the culture but also the enduring spirit of an indigenous group that has preserved its identity through generations.
Juror Nwonwu Uchechukwu P praised the image for its evocative power, noting that the elderly woman’s solemn gaze provides a glimpse into the Apatani tribe’s storied past. The lighting draws attention to her unique facial features and cultural adornments, making this portrait a powerful tribute to her identity, cultural pride, and resilience in the face of time.
In this serene image, a member of the Bonda tribe from Odisha, India, is seen partaking in the consumption of Mahua, a traditional drink made from the flowers of the Mahua tree. The quiet simplicity of the moment reflects the deep connection the tribe holds with its traditions and natural surroundings. The drinking pot and woven basket serve as cultural symbols, representing the tribe’s timeless customs and their way of life that has remained unchanged for centuries.
Juror Mrb Rafi commended the composition, which adheres to the one-third rule, bringing a harmonious balance to the photograph. The captured motion of the figure drinking, combined with the vibrant colours and traditional elements, creates a powerful visual narrative of cultural pride. The image doesn’t just document a moment but tells a story of the Bonda tribe’s resilience and their deep-rooted traditions, celebrating their way of life with dignity and authenticity.
In this vivid snapshot from India’s iconic Holi festival, revellers are completely immersed in a burst of radiant colour, celebrating the arrival of spring with pure joy and exuberance. The air is alive with clouds of vibrant powders, and the scene is a riot of reds, blues, greens, and yellows, symbolizing the unity and playful spirit of the festival. The lively composition captures the festival’s essence, where people gather to smear each other with colors, dance, and celebrate the renewal of life.
Juror Pierre André Leclercq praised the image for its powerful representation of Holi’s energy and joy. The dynamic composition, combined with the kaleidoscope of colors, perfectly conveys the festive atmosphere. The chaotic harmony of hues in the photograph encapsulates the spirit of the festival, where the celebration of spring is infused with deep cultural meaning and exuberant expressions of happiness. This image is a beautiful homage to the timeless traditions and the vibrant celebration that is Holi.
The Iloilo Dinagyang Festival, held annually in the Philippines, celebrates the rich heritage, history, and vibrant spirit of the Ilonggo people. Originally a thanksgiving event in honour of Senyor Santo Niño, the child Jesus, the festival has grown into one of the country’s most colourful and grand cultural and religious festivals. This celebration features energetic street performances, music, and stunning displays of traditional costumes, capturing the essence of Ilonggo devotion and pride.
The photograph of the Dinagyang Warriors perfectly encapsulates the energy and symbolism of this iconic festival. The warriors’ detailed and intricate cultural adornments highlight the deep-rooted traditions of the Ilonggo people, from their bold costumes to the powerful symbolism embedded in their attire. Each piece worn by the warriors tells a story of cultural identity and history.
Juror Mrb Rafi commended the image for its aggressive and intense atmosphere, created by its darker colour grading and the busy composition. These elements combine to portray a story of fierce devotion, aligning with the title of the image. Though many visual elements vie for attention, the overall effect successfully reflects the dynamic, chaotic energy of the festival and the warrior-like spirit of the performers. Despite the overwhelming details, the intricate cultural decorations and body ornaments stand out, reminding viewers of the rich traditions passed down through generations.
In this breathtaking capture, the wild energy of a traditional gunpowder celebration in Morocco unfolds in a haze of smoke and light. The participants, engaged in a dramatic display of cultural heritage, stand amidst clouds of gunpowder as explosions reverberate around them. The excitement is almost tangible as the scene fills with light breaking through the thick smoke, creating an atmosphere of raw intensity and vibrant tradition.
Juror Mrb Rafi praised the image for its impeccable timing, capturing the exact moment of action and chaos. The rays of light piercing through the smoke, coupled with the intense expressions on the participants’ faces, convey a sense of powerful motion frozen in time. This photograph beautifully encapsulates the energy, spirit, and cultural significance of the celebration, offering a glimpse into the heart of Moroccan tradition. The controlled chaos, dramatic lighting, and dynamic storytelling come together to create an image that resonates with both movement and emotion.
In this serene and sacred capture, a group of Muslim worshippers are seen in ruku, the bowing position during namaz (congregational prayer). With heads lowered and backs arched in deep submission to Allah, this moment embodies humility, reverence, and piety. The worshippers are united in their devotion, their hearts aligned in rhythmic prayer as they seek closeness to the Almighty. The peacefulness of the scene evokes a sense of spiritual connection, as each individual, immersed in worship, finds solace and fulfilment through this profound act of devotion.
Juror Aristeas praised the photograph for its powerful depiction of both unity and diversity within the group. The uniformity of posture, as all worshippers bow in prayer, signifies their equality before God, following the same religious customs and practices. Yet, the diversity is beautifully expressed through the vibrant variety of colours in their clothing, reminding viewers that while these individuals share a common faith, they remain unique. This harmony of unity and individuality highlights the personal nature of faith.
Adding to the spiritual tone of the image, the large chandelier hanging above the worshippers emphasizes the sacredness of the space. Its presence in the foreground lends an additional layer of sanctity to the photograph, further drawing attention to the holiness of the moment and setting, creating a visual that resonates with a deep sense of spirituality and reverence.
Best Video Highlights
The video category was dominated by Azimronnie’s Traditional Fishing Festival (CC-BY-SA 4.0), which masterfully portrays the rich cultural heritage of Bangladesh. It highlights age-old fishing techniques and showcases strong community involvement. The narrative is captivating, featuring smooth transitions and well-paced editing that maintain the viewer’s attention. The audio quality is clear and well-balanced, further drawing the audience into the experience. Visually, the footage is vivid and dynamic, offering striking views of the festival’s activities. Juror Camelia Boban praised the video for its “captivating narrative and smooth editing,” noting that it successfully underscores the significance of preserving these folkloric traditions, leaving a memorable impression on its viewers.
Best Audio Highlights
In the audio category, First Nations Pow-Wow Drums and Singers Stereo by Marc Lautenbacher (CC-BY-SA 4.0) stands out for its beautiful capture of the cultural essence of Indigenous heritage. The recording showcases traditional rhythms and vocal harmonies that are deeply rooted in ceremonial practice. The sound quality is crisp, with a balanced mix of powerful drumming and voices, allowing listeners to fully appreciate the complexity of the performance. Juror Camelia Boban noted that the audio creates a captivating atmosphere, evoking a sense of reverence and unity, effectively transporting the audience to the heart of a sacred gathering. Overall, the recording serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating Indigenous folklore traditions, leaving a lasting emotional impact.
Top Uploaders
🥇 User: Goutam1962–5,000 files
Goutam1962 is a highly dedicated contributor to Wiki Loves Folklore, with an impressive 5,000 files uploaded. His diverse collection of photographs highlights traditional festivals, dances, and everyday life, capturing various aspects of folk culture and traditions within Indian communities.
Juror Camelia Boban commented: “Goutam1962’s uploads demonstrate a strong commitment to documenting the vibrant tapestry of Indian folk traditions, providing invaluable insights into the rich cultural heritage of the region.”
🥈 User: Wasiul Bahar — 4,298 files
Wasiul Bahar is a notable contributor to the Wiki Loves Folklore competition, having uploaded an impressive 4,298 files. His contributions significantly enrich the global documentation of folk culture, particularly focusing on the rich traditions of Bangladesh.
Juror Camelia Boban remarked: “Wasiul Bahar’s extensive uploads play a crucial role in representing Bangladeshi folklore, showcasing its depth and diversity while enhancing awareness of these cultural treasures.”
A Celebration of Diversity and Tradition
As we close this chapter of Wiki Loves Folklore 2024, we celebrate the extraordinary photographers, videographers, and contributors who have enriched Wikimedia Commons with their stories. Their work not only preserves cultural heritage but also uplifts underrepresented voices and communities across the globe. Each image, video, and sound recording is a testament to the power of storytelling through folklore, bridging generations and bringing distant traditions closer to all of us.
Also, the Feminism and Folklore initiative has been monumental, with 9981 articles submitted, including 9784 newly created ones across 34 Wikipedia language versions. Additionally, 197 existing articles have been expanded, shedding light on the vital intersection of gender and cultural heritage. This initiative showcases how storytelling can empower and give voice to diverse communities, bridging traditions and modernity.
Let us continue to celebrate and preserve these rich traditions, ensuring that feminism and folklore remain vibrant parts of our shared history and digital future.
Call to Action
Looking ahead to 2025, we invite you to be part of the Wiki Loves Folklore and Feminism & Folklore campaigns! Whether you are a photographer, videographer, writer, or simply a lover of culture, your contributions are invaluable. Share your stories, document your traditions, and help us build a richer, more inclusive digital heritage. Together, we can ensure that the beauty and diversity of folklore continue to inspire and educate future generations. Let’s make the 2025 campaign even more impactful and inclusive!
This Blog was reposted from Medium
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