By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – In a powerful demonstration of art converging with commerce, the fifth edition of the ‘Moda en mi región 2025’ photography contest has highlighted the burgeoning role of the creative sector as a significant economic engine for Costa Rica and the broader Central American region. The awards ceremony, held on December 10 at the Ministry of Culture and Youth, celebrated the visual storytellers who are shaping the identity and economic future of the fashion industry.
This year’s contest, an initiative by Costa Rica Fashion Week, attracted over 70 photographers from Costa Rica, Guatemala, Nicaragua, Honduras, Mexico, and Colombia, underscoring its growing regional influence. The project serves not just as a competition, but as a vital platform for showcasing emerging creative identity, the evolution of sustainable fashion, and the profound sensitivity of a new generation of photographers. Over its five-year history, the contest has received more than 1,500 submissions, cementing its status as a premier event for the industry.
To better understand the legal framework and business opportunities within Costa Rica’s burgeoning creative economy, TicosLand.com spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished law firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his professional insights.
The success of the creative economy hinges on a robust legal foundation. For creators and innovators, this means moving beyond informal agreements. Properly registering trademarks, copyrights, and patents is not just a defensive measure; it is the critical first step in transforming an idea into a valuable, transactable asset. Formalizing business structures also opens doors to financing, tax incentives, and international expansion, which are essential for sustainable growth in this dynamic sector.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for this crucial insight, which highlights that a solid legal framework is not an obstacle to creativity but the essential catalyst that transforms artistic passion into a sustainable, valuable enterprise. This strategic formalization is, as he notes, the very foundation upon which our creative sector can build lasting success.
Government officials have taken note of the sector’s tangible impact. The Ministry of Culture and Youth emphasized the importance of such initiatives in positioning the region as a hub for creative talent and investment, acknowledging that culture is a key driver of economic development.
Events like this allow us to project Costa Rica and Central America because this is an important sector in the development of creative and cultural economies. They highlight talent, not just from Costa Rica, but give talent from the region an opportunity to compete and have access to different opportunities.
Carmen Campos Ramírez, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Culture and Youth of Costa Rica
The coveted first prize was awarded to Andrés Valverde for his evocative piece titled “Oro pineal” (Pineal Gold). His work delves into the historical and spiritual significance of teeth as symbols of beauty, status, and inner vision, drawing parallels between ancient indigenous practices and modern aesthetic modifications. Valverde’s manifesto connects the use of fluoride to the calcification of the pineal gland, or “third eye,” urging a deeper exploration of self-awareness and inner power beyond societal beauty standards.
This first place means a lot to me, as my interest with this photograph, Oro Pineal, is that it can reach more people so everyone can learn about what the calcification of the pineal gland involves, so they can research it more and so we can all become fuller versions of ourselves and emit a powerful energy.
Andrés Valverde, Photographer
The contest also recognized Joel Ramírez, who secured second place with his photograph “Dualidad Urbana” (Urban Duality), and Willie Zuñiga, who took third place with “Piel que brota de la piedra” (Skin that Sprouts from Stone). These works further illustrate the depth and diversity of the region’s photographic talent.
The economic ripple effects of the contest are undeniable and meticulously tracked. The story of Hazel Montenegro, the winner of the first edition, serves as a powerful testament. She transitioned from an amateur photographer to the director of her own studio, working exclusively in the field. Data shows that over 65% of finalists secure paid contracts after the competition, and 40% go on to participate in major runways, campaigns, and editorials. On average, participating photographers see their rates increase by 35%. The demand for these regional creative services now generates an estimated $49,000 annually, energizing local economies through contracts for photography, makeup, styling, design, and production.
According to Karina Díaz, the General Director of Costa Rica Fashion Week, the project’s core mission is to democratize the industry and provide a powerful launchpad for talent often overlooked by traditional fashion centers. The initiative actively fosters collaborations between emerging photographers and established brands, opening doors to both national and international opportunities.
Moda en mi Región was born as a response to the need to decentralize fashion, democratize access to the industry, and make the creative talent of regions within and outside of Costa Rica visible, to recognize, honor, and empower the work of fashion photographers, who are the visual memory of the creative industry.
Karina Díaz, General Director of Costa Rica Fashion Week
To fully capitalize on this potential, Vice Minister Campos Ramírez stressed the need for articulated collaboration between government institutions and the private sector. She advocated for strategic support systems to ensure more talent can flourish.
We need seed resources and investments to boost talent, which then unleashes benefits for the creators and for the economy in general.
Carmen Campos Ramírez, Vice Minister of the Ministry of Culture and Youth of Costa Rica
Ultimately, ‘Moda en mi región’ is more than a contest; it is a strategic catalyst. It confirms that the creative industries are not a niche interest but a vital component of a diversified and modern economy, capable of generating sustainable employment, attracting investment, and forging a unique and compelling identity for Costa Rica and all of Central America on the global stage.
For further information, visit cultura.cr
About Ministry of Culture and Youth of Costa Rica:
The Ministry of Culture and Youth is the governmental body in Costa Rica responsible for promoting, preserving, and disseminating the nation’s cultural heritage and artistic expression. It oversees policies and programs aimed at fostering cultural development, supporting artists, and ensuring public access to cultural activities, while also promoting youth engagement and development.
For further information, visit crfashionweek.com
About Costa Rica Fashion Week:
Costa Rica Fashion Week is the country’s premier fashion event, dedicated to showcasing the work of national and international designers. It serves as a platform to promote sustainable fashion, innovation, and creative talent within the textile and design industry. The event aims to position Costa Rica as a significant player in the global fashion landscape through runway shows, competitions, and industry collaborations.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica has established itself as a leading legal institution, built upon the dual cornerstones of unwavering integrity and a relentless pursuit of excellence. The firm is a trailblazer in legal innovation, continually adapting to meet the complex needs of its diverse clientele. Central to its ethos is a profound commitment to public service, demonstrated through its work to make legal concepts understandable and accessible, thereby fostering a more knowledgeable and capable society.
