Andorran Photographer Naiara Escabias Wins Award for Glacier Series at Olot Biennial

Andorran photographer Naiara Escabias has won one of four awards at the XVI Biennal - Mostra Internacional de Fotografia d’Olot, selected from 40 projects for her exhibition Ferides de gel.

The series features seven large-scale pieces, measuring up to 150 x 100 centimetres—significantly bigger than her previous work. Created using Polaroid transfer techniques, the largest piece incorporates 135 films, a marked increase from earlier compositions of around 20. Inspired by a trip to Iceland, the abstract works depict the beauty, power, and vulnerability of glaciers amid their melting.

Escabias described the project as a major career milestone. She faced technical challenges that nearly led her to abandon it, but persisted through trial and error. Support from her family and friends proved crucial, and the process was so emotional that she shed tears upon seeing the exhibition installed. Receiving the award felt "spectacular," she said, noting that visitors recognised her evolution from last year's premiated series Caminant als meus refugis. Many remarked that Ferides de gel was among the most impactful displays.

The exhibition is at the Claustre de l’Hospici in Olot, a prime venue, and forms part of the biennial held over the recent weekend. The event fills the town with photography from professionals and amateurs across locations, alongside workshops. Escabias credited backing from Andorra’s Culture Ministry for enabling this ambitious endeavour.

The show opened on 31 July and runs until 28 August.