Vendula Ralkova

Vendula Ralkova is a Continuing Studies Instructor at Emily Carr University of Art and Design and also teaches at Simon Fraser University. She is a Prague-born fine art photographer based in Vancouver with expertise in street photography.

Her academic background includes:

• Bachelor of Fine Arts from Emily Carr University
• Master of Fine Arts earned on scholarship in Milan, Italy
• Studies across three photographic institutions including Langara College
• Internship at Magnum Photos in Paris working with Josef Koudelka

Ralkova's research focuses on the instinctive nature of street photography, capturing spontaneous urban moments through rhythm, light, and human interaction without preconceived planning. Her work, such as the 2010 series "Luctor et Emergo", explores the interplay between the imaginary and tangible in everyday environments. She emphasizes photography as a dance with the street's unpredictable energy where perfect alignment of elements creates the image.

In January 2012, she delivered the public lecture "Street photography: the Imaginary, the Tangible and the Obvious" at SFU Harbour Centre, documenting her artistic philosophy and methodology in urban settings.