About Platform36
About
PLATFORM36 is an independent collective and platform dedicated to supporting the next generation of photographers and photojournalists, especially those from overlooked or marginalized communities. Named after the traditional 36 exposures on a roll of film, Platform 36 symbolizes creative potential, storytelling power, and the belief that every frame matters. We exist to nurture visual storytellers by offering space, mentorship, and visibility: helping them develop their voices and share their truths with the world.
Our Mission
To elevate local and overlooked artists by amplifying their stories through curated exhibitions, digital tools, and strategic partnerships. We connect artists to galleries, publications, and institutions, helping them build professional portfolios and preserve their creative legacies.
What we do
- Curate and promote photo essays and visual stories from suppressed, displaced, or underserved communities.
- Partner with galleries, NGOs, and media outlets to support truth-based, socially impactful storytelling.
- Provide tools and supportfor archiving and protecting artists’ work for future generations.
- Help artists monetize their work through print sales, exhibitions, and NFTs.
Our Team
We are a group of photographers, artists, technologists, and creative activists working at the intersection of art, community, and innovation. Many of us have previously collaborated on projects involving visual storytelling, grassroots advocacy, and media-based empowerment in Southeast Asia.
Platform 36 is led by Ye Aung Thu, an award-winning Burmese photojournalist and co-founder of the collective. Ye Aung Thu was recently recognized by the World Press Photo Contest for his impactful visual work on life in Myanmar and across Asia. Our team, deeply connected to communities in Myanmar and Thailand, is united by a commitment to truth-telling, inclusivity, and supporting those most affected by conflict and marginalisation.