Dr. Yannis Kontos is an award-winning documentary photographer and artist with over 25 years of international experience in visual storytelling, media, and the creative industries. He is currently an Assistant Professor at the United Arab Emirates University, specializing in Visual Arts and Creative Industries.

Kontos has documented wars, conflicts, and pivotal global events, capturing the defining moments of history in more than 50 countries. He holds a PhD in Documentary Photography and a Master of Arts in Photographic Journalism, emphasizing his deep commitment to truth and artistic expression. His photography has earned him 20 prestigious international awards, including first prize in the World Press Photo Competition. His work has been widely published, appearing on the covers of Time, The New York Times, L’Express, Nouvel Observateur, Le Monde, and The Sunday Times.

In addition to his photographic career, Kontos is the author of two critically acclaimed books, Possible / Impossible: Aporias and North Korea: Red Utopia, which explore diverse societies through compelling visual narratives. His work is part of both private and public collections and has been exhibited worldwide in galleries, museums, and major art festivals.

Evolving beyond photojournalism, Kontos now explores the transformative power of visual storytelling in contemporary art. His recent work delves into pressing global concerns, particularly environmental sustainability and humanity’s impact on the planet. Through his multidisciplinary approach, he challenges perceptions, fosters dialogue, and engages with the complexities of human existence and ecological change. His artistic vision continues to push boundaries, offering speculative narratives that question the future of humanity and its relationship with the natural world.

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