Pottery has long been woven into the cultural identity of the Algarve. From traditional terracotta chimneys and hand-crafted ceramics to the quiet workshops hidden within whitewashed villages, the region carries a rich visual language shaped by clay, earth, texture, and craftsmanship. This photographic challenge invites participants to explore “Pottery” not simply as an object, but as a story of heritage, creativity, labour, and place.
We encourage photographers to interpret the theme broadly and imaginatively. Images might capture the hands of an artisan at work, the character of aged ceramic surfaces, the vibrant colours of Algarve pottery markets, or the relationship between pottery and the landscapes that inspired it. Contemporary interpretations are equally welcome — abstract details, conceptual work, still life, portraiture, documentary, or environmental storytelling can all bring new depth to the theme.
Above all, this challenge is about celebrating the connection between the Algarve and one of its enduring artistic traditions through compelling visual storytelling.
Avery Holt is a curator and visual culture critic whose work explores the intersection of narrative, place, and perception went to work once again performing her Judging duties. With a background in documentary photography and environmental design, Holt has served on juries for international exhibitions and competitions celebrating creative reinterpretations of culture and tradition. Their curatorial philosophy centers on the quiet power of the unexpected — moments where familiar symbols are reframed through light, geography, or imagination.
Well done to everyone who took part, and congratulations to those who were selected and are featured in the current July edition of the Algarve Plus Magazine.
The next theme for Algarve Plus for August will be: “Tourists”.
Selected & Published Images
Words of Wisdom
1st Place: 14 The potter’s wheel by Nigel Chapman
Hands-on-clay is the definitive pottery narrative. Warm earthy tones, beautifully shallow depth of field, and a sense of motion in the spinning wheel all combine into a technically and emotionally complete image. Directly connected to the craft.
2nd Place: 06 Fruit Bowl by Glyn Parry
Studio-quality black background isolates the bowl perfectly. The lemon-yellow and cobalt-blue palette is vivid, punchy, and distinctly Mediterranean. The subtle reflection adds polish without distraction. Clean, confident, professional.
3rd Place: 01 A Rose Among Thorns by Kevin Saunders
Overhead symmetry is bold and deliberate. The succulent and thistles create an elegant botanical contrast, and the terracotta rim acts as a natural frame. The muted dark wood background grounds the cool purples beautifully.
4th Place: 12 Pot and Stand by Sergio Pereira
Strong sense of place — whitewashed walls, azulejo tile, cobbled steps and worn terracotta all read unmistakably Algarve. The ornate iron stand adds elegance and lifts the pot off the ground visually. Great contextual storytelling.
5th Place: 11 Patria by Ina Tänzer
Unique and culturally rich — hand-painted azulejo tiles bearing a Portuguese poem by João de Deus is a deeply authentic Algarve subject. The dramatic low-angle perspective, cobbled foreground, and cloudy sky add gravitas and grandeur.
Main Gallery
