The Dutch Photographer, Renowned for His Advocacy and Humanitarian Work, Earns Recognition as an Ambassador of Human Kindness

The Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum International Photography Award (HIPA) has revealed the third Special Award winner of its Thirteenth Season themed ‘Sustainability’. Renowned Dutch Photographer James Philip Nelson, most notably known as ‘Jimmy Nelson’, has been honoured with the prestigious ‘Photography Appreciation Award’ accompanied by a prize of US $100,000. 

This award recognises individuals who have made significant contributions to the advancement of photography, inspiring future generations of creatives to continue pushing the boundaries of the art form. Jimmy Nelson’s work celebrated for its powerful portrayal of indigenous cultures and commitment to humanitarian causes, embodies the spirit of the award. Nelson, along with the other awardees, will be celebrated at a special ceremony at the Museum of the Future in Dubai on November 12, 2024.

His Excellency Abdul Rahman bin Mohammed Al Owais, Minister of Health and Community Protection and Chairman of the Board of Trustees of HIPA, praised Jimmy Nelson’s powerful journey in photography and its profound impact. “Nelson’s story with photography is both moving and inspiring, showing us how a lens can transform the lives of those who use it, said Al Owais. “Nelson’s work with indigenous communities through art and photography is a powerful example of how long-term projects can make a meaningful impact, fostering greater understanding and connection between different cultures and civilisations.”

His Excellency Ali Khalifa Bin Thalith, Secretary General of HIPA, stated, “By honouring these distinguished individuals, HIPA aims to showcase exemplary models of excellence that inspire and motivate contributions to the global photography community. Our recognition of creative talent through the three Special Award categories lies at the heart of HIPA’s mission and vision, which is guided by the principles of His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the founder and patron of HIPA. Through his support for the arts and creativity, His Highness continues to inspire progress and success on a global scale.”

Bin Thalith added: “Photography communities around the world are excited to see the winners of the Thirteenth Season, ‘Sustainability’, across all the categories, which will be announced at the grand ceremony next Tuesday at the Museum of the Future in Dubai, an iconic building known for its sustainable efforts. We assure everyone that the winning works will exceed expectations and showcase exceptional talent.”

Jimmy Nelson shared his thoughts on receiving the award: “I am deeply honoured to be recognised as the 2024 recipient of HIPA’s Photography Appreciation Award. My heartfelt thanks go to His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum for establishing this prestigious award. His visionary leadership, along with Dubai’s commitment to supporting art, culture and innovation highlights a strong dedication to promoting creativity worldwide.”

“I hope that this recognition serves as inspiration for future generations of creatives worldwide to celebrate the beauty of our shared humanity. Through the art of photography, we have a unique opportunity to remind the world of our collective responsibility to cherish and protect our greatest resource - our planet, our home. I believe Dubai is uniquely positioned to lead the world toward a future defined by cultural awareness and sustainability, setting a powerful example of creativity with purpose.”

Photography Appreciation Award

James “Jimmy” Philip Nelson | Netherlands

Jimmy Nelson was born in Sevenoaks, England (1967). Due to his father’s work as a geologist, he traveled extensively in remote parts of Africa, the Americas, where he formed lasting bonds with indigenous communities. However, his idyllic childhood was disrupted when he attended a British boarding school, leading to feelings of isolation and trauma.

When he was seventeen, Jimmy faced a significant turning point when he developed Alopecia Totalis, an autoimmune condition that left him completely hairless. This experience deepened his emotional scars and made him feel vulnerable and disconnected. In search of meaning, he journeyed to Tibet with a Zenit B camera, a gift from his father. What started as an escape turned into a transformative journey of discovery through photography, finding solace and allowing him to reconnect with the kindness of humanity he had lost faith in. Through the lens, he began to see people as reflections of the generosity and warmth he longed for.

Photography became his means of depicting the beauty and resilience of human beings, restoring his faith in humanity. Over the years, Jimmy has travelled to some of the most remote corners of the planet, documenting diverse cultures with respect and admiration. His work emphasizes the beauty, diversity, and authenticity of human experiences. With meticulous attention to detail, Nelson’s images are shaped by a pursuit of harmony in composition, colour, and natural light.

Since his first internationally recognized photographs of Tibet nearly 30 years ago, Jimmy has published several important photography books, including Before They Pass Away (2013) and Homage to Humanity (2018). Over the years, he has visited countless indigenous communities around the world, fostering reciprocal projects through the Jimmy Nelson Foundation. In 2022, he released Between the Sea and the Sky, which pays homage to the traditional cultures of the Netherlands, his adopted homeland.

Currently, Jimmy is working on a new project in Central Asia and the Middle East, focusing on celebrating the rich, yet often overlooked, cultural heritages. This project aims to fill a gap in his legacy, titled The Canvas of Humanity - a living tapestry of stories dedicated to promoting global unity worldwide. Through this exploration, he continues his mission to honor the diverse cultures that shape our world.

Jimmy Nelson’s art is showcased in galleries, museums, and private collections worldwide, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the diversity for human cultures and bridging gaps between them.