Vlad Eftenie

I participated in the VSLO since the first edition. The story of getting there was short. The one of remaining there, has a few years till now, when you read this text.
Picture 1: I met Catalin and Andreea on the Motoare Terrace at TNB. I suggested them the place, I had not been up there for some time. They agreed. Going up, we remembered beautiful things made there without knowing each other yet. The proposal came naturally. They were going to make a photo festival in Vama. I was passionate about photography and about Vama, so I spontaneously answered “yes”. Then I asked what it was about. And it has been a way for years, until today.
Picture 2: Vama, main alley. I walk slowly and surely, this initiatic route that starts from the plaque of the entrance plate in the place. Vama Veche – black on white background. That’s where it starts. Again. I can not wait to see Catalin and Andreea and that nice to see you again hug. These people have a warmth, something like a warm magnet. I look forward to seeing everyone and hugging each other. We have a lot to do this year too. Meetings during the year do not look like this. Because now it really starts. Again and again, it starts again. Oscar with his wings spread over a new Vama. How will it be this year the audience? I did my homework, I prepared an interesting material. Every one of us comes with the best to offer.
I walk the main alley in slow motion. Memoirs for so many years have covered me, I’ve known this street since it was nothing. Hihi, how funny are the boys who are reading the poster, they look very surprised. I get closer to see the poster better. “I say we go, it sounds good too,” says one of them, with a camera in his hand. Aha, I say, first customers  bravo, the poster looks good, the program is full of goodies, as usual. Creative workshops, exhibitions, cameras and techniques at your fingertips.
I walk through the main aisle in slow motion and as I look outward, the more inward amalgamation gathers. What a beauty were the past years, when everything started out of nothingness and willingly and willing to offer. And how the mornings turned into days and nights spent together. We and the photography. Every word and trigger, smile and work theme left fingerprints and built this phenomenon. A handful of enthusiastic people can move mountains, it’s clear. Okay, seas and dugs, if we’re still at the seaside. I’m glad I’m here this time.
Picture 3: VSLO is more than just a festival, it becomes a habit, a landmark every year. What are you doing in the summer? I do not know exactly, but in August I’m in Vama with a photo workshop. I run through the main driveway and reach the scene. Here’s the guys, look at Catalin, he sees me and I see his growing smile. I have arrived. VSLO begins