Initiated in 2023, the New Humanitarian Perspective Grant by Action Against Hunger aims to cast a fresh light on the portrayal of humanitarian efforts. This initiative seeks to reconsider how humanitarian narratives are built, advocating for a perspective that transcends traditional portrayals. The NGO strives for a reflection that is more accurate, balanced, and ethical, fostering a more equitable dialogue with those depicted.
The Grant is intended as a forum for exploring innovative narrative, iconographic, video, and sound methods. It aims to recognize projects that break away from entrenched conventions, showcasing creativity and boldness to spur collective thought on evolving multimedia language. “The New Humanitarian Perspective Grant from Action Against Hunger represents a precious opportunity for photographers,” says Giulietta Palumbo, a jury member and editorial director at Magnum Photos. “It empowers them to pursue ambitious projects, freely innovate in their storytelling approaches, and ultimately aim to make a meaningful impact and contribute to humanitarian efforts.”
Last year, the inaugural edition of the Grant saw the Action Against Hunger team review nearly 150 submissions from across the globe, narrowing it down to twenty-five for the international jury led by Cristina de Middel, president of Magnum Photos. Following rigorous work sessions and interviews with five finalists, the project Invisible Hunger by Alice Bibette and Camille Toulmé was honored with the award.
This immersive installation, produced in Montreuil and Marseille, merges animation with 360-degree camera technology to shed light on the issue of hunger in France. The protagonists, Raheema and Omar, document their everyday lives and the stark realities they face using a 360-degree camera. Over time, with the help of animation, they invite viewers into their personal experiences, revealing aspects generally hidden from the public eye. Through a sensory stage design enhanced by virtual reality, exhibition visitors gain insight into the daily battles against hunger and precariousness faced by these two individuals, reflecting a widespread issue affecting numerous French citizens.
“We aim to address the concept of distance between the audience and those depicted, as well as their portrayal,” Toulmé and Bibette elaborate. “France emerged as the perfect setting to discuss the overlooked plight of those suffering from hunger. The lengthy queues at food distributions during the Covid-19 pandemic caught everyone off guard. Subsequently, as the crisis waned and the startling images vanished, those impacted by hunger receded into the background, returning to the neglected corners of France.”
Camille Toulmé and Alice Bibette, Invisible Hunger, winner of the Action Against Hunger’s New Humanitarian Perspective Grant is on view at Cité Fertile, 14 Ave. Edouard Vaillant, in Pantin, Paris, from October 18 to 27, 2024.
