It’s been some time now since I have been part of the fantastic London Photo Festival, but my memories of it are still quite vivid. I heard about the LPF from one of my teachers at University in Germany, where I used to study for a Teacher’s degree in Fine Art at that time. Since I was planning to spend a semester abroad in London anyway and now found out there would be a chance to exhibit my work, I didn’t hesitate a second and booked my space.
So finally the big day of the private view came and I remember walking around the exhibition thinking “damn, there are some really good photographer’s in this show, who really know how to use their camera.” A little bit embarrassed about my own photo I tried to look at the positive sides, like that I got to meet a lot of interesting people and generally the whole experience of exhibition practice was very helpful. So, as I was in company of nice people and good wine, you can imagine how I surprised I was, when suddenly my name was called out for “Best in Show”.
I didn’t expect it at all I can’t emphasize this enough!) and I think it actually took me a few days to realize everything. Also the fact that my picture got sold straight from the show seemed very unreal at first. It was all too good. I’m still in touch with the collector who bought my piece and it’s such a nice thing to know my photo is now hanging miles away in somebody else’s living room.
Still, what was even more important to me – That night, after winning the award, my boosted ego decided to take my career as an artist seriously, quite my studies in Germany, stay in London and finish my Fine Art degree here. Looking back, there isn’t much to say other than: It has been the best decision I’ve ever made. After two wonderful years full of art, putting up and taking down many more shows and finally graduating from Uni, I am know back in Germany, Berlin dividing my time between working for a gallery and concentrating on my own art work.
Nothing left to say than life is good. In fact, it’s great and I really have to thank everyone from the LPF, without whom all this might have never happened.
www.karolinschwab.com
