Photographers invited to capture the spirit of Steinbeck in photography competition

Photography enthusiasts have until December 13 to capture their interpretation of the chosen theme ‘Moving People’.

The competition forms part of the annual Steinbeck Festival, which celebrates the celebrated American author John Steinbeck’s connection with Limavady and the Roe Valley, where his maternal grandfather’s family roots can be traced to.

Now a much-anticipated feature of the festival programme, the photography competition offers both experienced photographers and enthusiastic amateurs the chance to explore Steinbeck’s work from a visual perspective.

With plenty of scope for individual interpretation, this year’s theme will challenge local photographers and competition organisers are eager to see the creative approaches adopted.

Harry Coates explained more about the theme and what the judges will be looking for, saying they are particularly excited to see how entrants bring their own interpretation to the competition:

“The main motivation for the organisers of the competition is their desire to encourage individual creativity.

“John Steinbeck believed that the “free, exploring mind of the individual human is the most valuable thing in the world.”

“This year’s theme for the competition is Moving People.

“People can be moved in many different ways, for example physically or emotionally.

“The subject has been deliberately designed to be open to the widest of artistic interpretations and accommodates the full range of genres and styles.

“What does that title suggest to you?

“Let your imagination run free!”

John Steinbeck’s grandfather, Samuel Hamilton, was born in Mulkeeragh near Ballykelly and this generational heritage deeply influenced Steinbeck’s life and work.

A new army of fans along with established Steinbeck admirers are expected to enjoy a new Netflix adaptation of one of his most famous novels, East of Eden, which is heavily influenced by Samuel Hamilton and his family roots in the Roe Valley.

The connection between Steinbeck and the local area is celebrated each February through the Steinbeck Festival in Limavady, a cultural celebration inspired by the author and his work.

The festival brings together literature, art, poetry, music, photography and a host of creative activities, engaging the local community.

As part of the 2027 festival programme, photographers are urged to get involved in the fun and creative competition by submitting up to three digital photographs to [email protected].

Entry is free and open to photographers of all ages, with submissions closing at midnight on December 13.

Following the closing date, 20 of the strongest entries will be selected for exhibition at the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre during February.

Adding an extra incentive for budding photographers, the overall winner will receive a unique decorative ‘Dust Bowl’, hand-thrown by esteemed local ceramicist Adam Frew.

For more information on the Steinbeck Festival Limavady, consult their Facebook page, website or email [email protected].