Experiencing the World Cup Through Screens

Many of us are not at the World Cup physically, yet we feel connected to it. This event is hailed as the biggest of its kind, featuring more teams, matches, and fans than ever before. While the stadiums fill up, a greater audience watches from afar. Over 1.5 billion people, almost a fifth of the global population, viewed the last World Cup final in 2022. This year, more viewers are expected.

The focus often centers on being present at the World Cup. Teams compete, fans travel, and cultures mix in a vibrant gathering. However, the World Cup is primarily a televised event for many. The images that capture the spirit of the games are often seen on screens far removed from the actual venues.

Photographers have found innovative ways to capture this remote experience. They transform television broadcasts into unique visual art. Paris-based photographer Bilal Aouffen uses bags of water to alter images, offering a new perspective. The result is an indistinct yet striking portrayal of events as they unfold.

Brazilian artist Gabriel Rolim uses a modified Game Boy camera to capture images from his TV. He converts these into animations that resemble thermographic memories. Moroccan photographer Karim Ouakkaha’s shots highlight emotional moments, like Egyptian goalkeeper Mostafa Shobeir’s defeat, using a digital blur effect.

Jared Soares, based in Washington, takes a different approach. He photographs matches from his television, prints the images in monochrome on paper, then crumples and flattens them. The texture adds depth to the scenes of joy and heartbreak that he captures.

The way we engage with the World Cup has evolved. The remote experience, though different, is vibrant and filled with innovation, proving that you can still deeply connect with the event without being physically present.