The initiative showcases stunning photographic art, connecting emerging talent with global audiences and exclusive art book collection that celebrates the essence of travel

Belmond, a prestigious luxury brand, has announced the winner of its inaugural Photographic Residency, Cecy Young. This new initiative highlights Belmond’s ongoing dedication to contemporary travel photography, focusing on emerging talent. Young’s previously unpublished work will be featured in the Belmond Legends campaign, which has previously showcased exclusive works by artists like Coco Capitán, Jack Davison, and François Halard. The campaign also introduces a new series of collectible art books, published and exhibited by RVB Books at Paris Photo.

A Distinguished Jury

Out of more than 800 applications from artists worldwide, the esteemed panel of experts in photography and the arts selected 18 finalists from 10 countries. The jury, including Simon Baker (Director of Maison Européenne de la Photographie), Carla Sozzani (Founder of Fondazione Sozzani), photographer Coco Capitán, writer and curator Antwaun Sargent, and Ekow Eshun, carefully chose Cecy Young as the winner of this prestigious residency.

Cecy Young’s Artistic Journey

Born and raised in Monterrey, Mexico, Cecy Young discovered her passion for photography while studying art. She later moved to Paris to study at the Spéos Paris Photographic Institute, launching her career in the beauty industry. However, her curiosity led her to explore Japan, a country she had long been fascinated by. In her winning project, Young captured the city of Atami, Japan, which, in her eyes, exudes a nostalgic atmosphere with Showa-era architecture frozen in time. Her work documents the city’s old buildings and classic hotels, showcasing their past glory while offering a unique perspective on the changes brought by modernization.

Young shared, “I feel deeply honored and grateful to have been chosen for this residency. This experience will allow me to explore my creative potential further and connect with a community that values creativity.”

The Prestigious Residency Prize

As the winner of the Belmond Photographic Residency, Young will receive a residency at one of Belmond’s iconic properties, a print publication of her work in collaboration with RVB Books, and the opportunity to hold a photography exhibition in a major global city. Additionally, she will receive mentorship from Belmond’s photography experts and a financial award of €15,000. Young’s work will also play a significant role in the "Belmond Legends" campaign, where she will share her unique artistic perspective on one of Belmond’s destinations.

A Global Platform for Emerging Talent

Through this residency program, Belmond offers talented photographers the opportunity to create works that reflect their vision of beauty, luxury, and distinctive destinations. Juror Antwaun Sargent noted, “The Belmond Photo Residency provides a dynamic environment for new voices to create and push the boundaries of their art in a setting that encourages innovation.”

The "As Seen By" Art Book Collection

In addition to announcing the residency winner, Belmond also launched two new limited-edition art books as part of the "As Seen By" collection. At Paris Photo 2024, Belmond unveiled works by Thomas Rousset at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons, A Belmond Hotel in Oxfordshire, and Stefanie Moshammer at Eastern & Oriental Express, A Belmond Train in Southeast Asia. This collection is part of a growing series that tells compelling stories from Belmond’s iconic properties.

RVB Books displayed these books at Paris Photo at the Grand Palais, where both Thomas Rousset and Stefanie Moshammer signed copies for visitors.

Through this residency and art book collection, Belmond continues to provide a platform for new artists to share their perspectives and enrich the world of contemporary art. The program and its art books are an extension of Belmond’s mission to inspire art and photography lovers around the world with unforgettable travel experiences.

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