What is M.I.L.K.?

Inspired by the 1950s landmark photographic exhibition, 'The Family of Man', M.I.L.K. began as an epic global search to develop a collection of extraordinary and geographically diverse images portraying humanity’s Moments of Intimacy, Laughter and Kinship (M.I.L.K.). This 'epic search', took the form of a photographic competition – probably the biggest, and almost certainly the most ambitious of its kind, ever to be conducted. With a world-record prize pool, and renowned Magnum photographer Elliott Erwitt as Chief Judge, the M.I.L.K. Competition was conceived to attract the work of leading photographers from as many of the world’s countries as possible.

The Competition became the photographic event of our time, with announcements sent to every one of the world’s 192 countries inviting photographers to enter. Their challenge was to capture and celebrate the essence of humanity, and judging criteria called for genuine photographic stories about family life, friendship and love, conveying real and spontaneous emotion. Ultimately 17,000 photographers from a staggering total of 164 countries participated, among them a myriad of award winners (including at least four Pulitzer Prize winners), professionals and gifted amateurs from six continents. Over 40,000 photographs were submitted

The M.I.L.K. Collection portrays unforgettable images of human life, from its first fragile moments to its last. They tell us that the rich bond that exists between families and friends is universal. Representing many diverse cultures, the compelling and powerful photographs convey feelings experienced by people around the globe. Transcending borders, the M.I.L.K. imagery reaches across continents to celebrate and reveal the heart of humanity

The winning photographs were first published as three books titled Family, Friendship and Love in early 2001, and are now featured in a range of products worldwide in nine languages in more than 20 countries.

Allofmyheart are proud to bring a small collection of Touching gifts and Fabulous Cards carrying the M.I.L.K. images