The Photoville festival returns for its 11th consecutive year in New York City, exhibiting a creative range of photography. The outdoor events will be publicly open from June 4 to June 26, taking place during the summer for the first time since 2012.

The festival, run by the nonprofit Brooklyn-based organization of the same name, features 65 exhibits in 20 locations across the five boroughs.

Since its inception, the goal of the organization and its exhibitions have been  to “promote a wider understanding and increased access to the art of photography for all,” according to Photoville’s website. This year is no different, spotlighting the work of creatives from far and wide.

“In our 11th year, we’re continuing Photoville’s mission to amplify artists’ voices across the diversity of human experiences,” Photoville co-founder Sam Barzilay told news site Broadway World.

Over 200 local and international photographers utilized the medium as a form of storytelling, and, through patrons and supporting organizations, were able to showcase their work in various parks and public spaces in New York City.

Themes of strength and hope in a post-lockdown world are prevalent in works such as photographer Rania Matar’s “Where Do I Go?” which captures the beauty and resilience of women in Lebanon grappling with corruption and destruction.

Another featured work is “The Rocketgirl Chronicles” which includes explorative photographs by Ukrainian artist Andrew Rovenko.  It focuses on a lone young girl wearing a spacesuit, finding adventure with limited time outdoors.

Several of these projects resonate heavily with those who experienced abrupt lifestyle shifts during the pandemic, including the Photoville organization itself. It stopped hosting its annual festival inside of shipping containers and brought its exhibitions to audiences in the open air or virtually.

“We thought, let’s keep doing Photoville. We don’t have to have the shipping containers. Let’s have all the photos outside so everyone can see when they’re coming into the park,” Laura Roumanos, Photoville co-founder and executive directive, told News 12 Brooklyn.  

Through this flexible arrangement, Photoville continues making photography accessible to all. This is the hird year the organization has arranged events throughout all five boroughs.

Workshops and panels are also offered to those interested in receiving career advice, including a clinic that offers photographers guidance  on safety and security.

The pandemic did not disrupt Photoville’s intent to bring large-scale photographs to the public.. Roumanos told Spectrum News that the shipping containers are expected to make a comeback by next year as life returns back to normal.

The exhibitions can be seen by visiting any of the participating locations. To get a complete list of all the events, visit Photoville.nyc.