The third edition of Argazkia Puntu Eus, an event gathering photographers from across Euskal Herria in Aretxabaleta, has awarded the 'Ointxapeldunak' project in its local category. This project, named after the inclusive basketball initiative for people with intellectual disabilities driven by Ointxe! Saskibaloi KE, highlights the bonds and experiences that emerge from this activity, bringing together players, former players, families, and coaches.
The project's photographer, originally from Oñati and residing in Aretxabaleta, has used his camera to tell human stories. His journey with photography began long ago, but the real turning point came when his daughters started playing basketball. Since then, the camera became a regular companion in sports centers, and the Ointxe! club has been his school, documenting both the competition and everything surrounding it.
The story of the Ointxapeldunak project began during the pandemic, when the Arrasate club implemented virtual training sessions. In this context, the photographer naturally started collaborating by recording and documenting the sessions. In 2024, the project officially launched as a social and sports initiative. The initial meetings had an almost educational nature, and an archive was built to document the team's journey. This experience has also extended beyond the local area, reaching places like the Bilbao Arena, Baskonia's facilities, Legazpi, and even the Zaballa prison.
“"We always end up saying the same thing: I don't know who is helping whom."
According to the photographer, one phrase encapsulates the spirit of the project: “We always end up saying the same thing: I don't know who is helping whom.” This reflection centers on the individuals with intellectual disabilities, whose passion for the game gives meaning to each session. “It’s a rush. What they transmit is incredible; laughter is constant,” he states. This energy is also reflected in his photographic work, using depth of field to isolate emotions and focus on the small gestures that sustain each moment.
The recognition received for his work means much more than a personal award for this visual artist. He hopes it will help give visibility to the project, extending beyond Arrasate's borders and reaching people in Oñati, Bergara, and all of Debagoiena. Eleven of the twenty photos submitted to Argazkia Puntu Eus are part of a collective exhibition that can be visited this month and next at Arkupe Kultur Etxea in Aretxabaleta, alongside the other awarded works. The photographer's images resonate because they do not observe from the outside but reflect the life experienced from within the Ointxapeldunak project.
