Rodeo 17: Showcasing the Future of Canadian Image Makers
This year’s Rodeo 17 competition has once again highlighted the immense talent and creativity flourishing in Canada’s next generation of image creators. Organized by the Canadian Association of Professional Image Creators (CAPIC), Rodeo is a national student competition in photography and illustration that celebrates emerging voices in visual storytelling. For this 17th edition, we were thrilled to receive a remarkable number of submissions from students across the country — a vibrant mix of powerful visuals, imaginative concepts, and technical excellence.
A Double Win for Gabriel Rebondy
The spotlight of this year's photography category shines brightly on Gabriel Rebondy, a student from CFP Lachine, who captured both first and second place with his hauntingly evocative photo series titled “Inner Struggles”. His winning images, “Suffocating” and “Exhaustion”, offer an emotionally charged visual representation of internal battles — themes that resonate deeply in today’s cultural and psychological climate.
The jury praised Rebondy’s work, stating:
“These were well-thought-out images, a well-executed concept.”
With moody lighting, compelling compositions, and raw emotional impact, his photographs stand out as both artistically sophisticated and viscerally human.
Gabriel Rebondy: “Luttes intérieures - Suffocation (Inner struggles - Suffocating)”.
Gabriel Rebondy: “Luttes intérieures - Epuisement (Inner struggles - Exhaustion)”.
Brotherhood in Motion
The third-place winner, Éléonore Menga from Dawson College, captivated the jury with her image titled “Brotherhood” — a lively, touching scene capturing three young brothers playfully wrestling on a bed. The photograph exudes warmth, energy, and intimacy, offering a glimpse into the chaos and joy of sibling relationships. The jury appreciated how the image balances spontaneity and structure, with a documentary feel that is both relatable and visually compelling.
Éléonore Menga: “Brotherhood”. Dawson College
Emerging Voices in Illustration
The Illustration category of Rodeo 17 showcased a stunning range of visual styles and storytelling techniques, reflecting both the technical prowess and personal expression of Canada’s future illustrators. This year, the winners all come from the IDEA School of Design at Capilano University, a testament to the strength of the program and the talent it nurtures.
1st Place – Anya Ali Mulzet
Her winning piece, “Daydreamer,” is a beautifully rendered illustration that draws viewers into a whimsical inner world. With soft textures, layered composition, and emotional nuance, Daydreamer captures the quiet magic of imagination and introspection.
Anya Ali Mulzet: “Daydreamer”.
2nd Place – Tin Raganit
With “Protected,” Tin presents a compelling image that evokes both strength and vulnerability. The piece balances warmth and tension through thoughtful use of space, color, and symbolism, creating a striking and memorable work.
Tin Raganit: “Protected”.
3rd Place – Rayna Lai
Rayna’s illustration, “Sulk,” offers a moody, expressive portrait of emotion through stylized characters and rich, brooding tones. The jury appreciated its narrative subtlety and atmosphere, making it a standout among a strong group of contenders.
Each of these works showcases how illustration can be a powerful vehicle for storytelling, emotion, and design innovation. The range and depth of submissions this year were truly inspiring.
Rayna Lai: “Sulk”.
Explore the Full Gallery
Beyond the winners, the Rodeo 17 online gallery presents a rich tapestry of student work that reflects the diversity and talent of Canada’s image-making community. From surreal illustrations to intimate portraits, abstract experiments to narrative-driven visuals, each submission showcases a unique artistic voice.
Browse the full gallery here.
We invite you to take your time, explore the entries, and experience the emerging perspectives that will shape the future of Canadian visual culture.
About Rodeo
Rodeo is more than a competition — it’s a platform for students to step into the professional creative community, gain visibility, and connect with industry peers. At CAPIC, we are proud to support and celebrate these rising talents, and we look forward to seeing where their creative paths will lead.
Congratulations to all the participants of Rodeo 17 — your work inspires, challenges, and moves us. We can’t wait to see what you create next.
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