About

Ema Širec (b. 2001) is a photographer and visual artist working across photography and graphic media. She holds a degree from the Academy of Fine Arts and Design in Ljubljana and a Master’s from the Royal College of Art in London. Based between Maribor and Ljubljana, Širec focuses primarily on documenting the Slovenian drag scene and everyday life.

Her work blends portraiture and documentary photography, often highlighting underrepresented communities with sensitivity and boldness. Širec has collaborated with organizations such as DiH, Ljubljana Pride, and MSRO, and has led several workshops with MKC, including a successful series in partnership with Mišnica (GT22).

Recognized internationally, with her zine recently being on display at Tate Modern, she has received photography awards in Tokyo, Budapest, and Paris. Her exhibitions have appeared in both galleries and public spaces—though not without controversy. One of her recent public installations was destroyed within five days, having been deemed “too provocative” for her hometown.

Širec is also known for her innovative approach to photography. She experiments with analog processes and unconventional materials—once even developing an image on the surface of a freshly cut apple—as she continues to push the boundaries of the medium.