Chan Hong Men Pierrot

Series Finalist · Open Call 2022

Chan Hong Men Pierrot

In 1997, Handicap International invited Chan Hong Men to become its official photographer in their hometown of Fianarantsoa. This opportunity arose during the first sports and cultural event for the disabled, which took place in all six provinces of the island and catered to people with a wide range of disabilities, including deafness, blindness, mental illness, and paraplegia. In “A Struggle for Dignity”, the photographer explores the complexities and nuances of disability, capturing the resilience and strength of their subjects. Through their lens, the artist delicately navigates the line between empathy and intrusion, providing an intimate look into the lives of these individuals while maintaining their privacy and dignity.

While traveling in Djibouti and Namibia, the photographer was deeply moved by the destruction caused by landmines. They discovered that diseases were the leading cause of disability in Madagascar, with untreated conditions frequently leading to blindness or severe mental health issues. One of the most common diseases they encountered was poliomyelitis, caused by a virus that attacks the spinal cord. With no vaccine or treatment available, tens of thousands of people were frequently left unable to walk.”A Struggle for Dignity” highlights not only the physical obstacles encountered by these community, but also the broader issues of exclusion and marginalization that pervade their daily lives. By shedding light on the challenges faced and with a keen eye for a detail and deep understanding of the human experience, Chang Hong Men Pierrot’s “A Struggle for Dignity” challenges societal perceptions in a compelling visual narrative that captures the power of determination and the beauty of overcoming adversity

This is the tenth issue of Eyeshot Magazine always in limited edition of 500 copies, showcasing the thoughtful and creative photographs of the 70 talented photographers who have been selected as the winners, jurors’ picks and finalists of the Eyeshot Open Call 2022. The artworks were chosen from over 6000 photographssubmitted from more than 100 different countries, making this a truly global showcase of street and documentary photography.