Pikto is more than a store–it’s the Distillery’s multipurpose space for digital photographers and includes a full digital lab, digital press, rental studio, rental workstations, scanners and framing. There is also an onsite gallery, café and bookstore which promote a sense of community amongst the wide range of professionals and enthusiasts who meet there.

Pikto believes strongly in supporting the photographic community, and is encouraging photographers to promote their work by entering the Pikto Top Pick Photo Contest. This contest is free to enter; the only requirement being that you take photography seriously and submit 15 photographs which illustrate a thematic concept.The distinguished panel of judges, which include Johan Hallberg-Campbell of Pikto Gallery, Gina Martin of National Geographic and Brian Morgan of Walrus Magazine, will be evaluating the submissions based on concept, artistic vision and the photographer’s voice. “I took part at Pikto Top Pick Competition almost at the last day and I really had no hope to be a winner,” said Arthur Bondar, last year’s prize winner. “It was really incredible news for me when I received e-mail that I won first
prize. I felt really proud that this gallery would show my work. I had never had any exhibition before. The Pikto curator and the gallery staff made everything at the highest level. They provided excellent printing, framing and exhibition of my pictures during one month. I came in person to the opening of my exhibition at the Pikto Gallery in Toronto and it impressed me so much that I was speechless. I met a lot of interesting people and had an unforgettable journey. After winning, I realized that I am on the right path with my photography…”
Each judge will select one winner, and the most popular submission as determined by online voting will receive a vote as well. The prize is up to $5000 to be spent towards a two-month exhibition at Pikto Gallery (including an opening reception!). For complete contest rules and submission guidelines, please click here.
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