Creative 2nd Place

This is a collection of teenagers’ portraits, paired with landscapes and inspired by global warming issues. Heatwaves, wildfires or floods are evoked in a cinematic way. The presence of teens – including several young activists – implies the growing threats that the next generation will have to deal with because of climate change, and its inevitable consequences on their physical and mental health. ‘Danger’ and ‘beauty’ were the two words I kept in mind while producing the series: it had to look both engaging and uncomfortable. A contradiction that reminded me of how we have recently been astonished by dangerously high summer temperatures, while accommodating ourselves to them. I also wanted to show different attitudes of today's youth: some look defiant and strong, but others are frightened. I didn’t want to show this ultra-combative youth that exists only in discourses and advertisements."

Raphaël Neal lives and works in St Leonards-on-Sea. His work is distributed by Agence VU’. His photographic work has been exhibited and published in France and internationally since 2005. Through self-portraits and portraits he explores themes such as solitude and seduction, boredom and imposture. In 2015, Raphaël Neal released his first long feature in France and in the Unites States, 'Fever', the story of two young criminals. The latest series, 'New Waves', consists of portraits of teenagers paired with landscapes.