Abstract 2nd place winner

We can all agree that water has many beneficial properties, but we often forget that it is an artist itself. It can move, curve, reflect. Sunsets, trees, flowers, blue skies – each one of these breathtaking views reflects in the water, painting them in millions of shades.

In my project I use its clear and unique beauty together with its ability to move and curve. The surface of all water is curved.
I break the perfection and create unique abstract underwater portraits aiming to show that even imperfection can be beautiful.

For portrait deformation I use clear water and its physical parameters with no software manipulation.

Michal Zahornacký is a Slovak photographer known for his artistic figurative portraits and urban photography with experimental elements. His work balances between reality and fiction, creating images that are both beautiful and thought-provoking.

Michal’s photography explores themes like identity, dynamics, traditions, and the human body. He is unafraid to experiment with photographic techniques, always seeking original visualizations of his subjects. His images are strong and focused, often highlighting just a few key details to evoke specific thoughts or emotions. He uses light and shading uniquely to add depth and structure to his photos, making his subjects stand out and inviting viewers to reflect on what they see.

Michal strives to infuse his personal perspective into each photograph, creating a unique visual language that resonates with his audience. His work has been exhibited in several countries, including China (Shanghai, Beijing), France (Paris), Slovakia (Bratislava), the Czech Republic (Krnov), and Poland (Belchatów). Michal Zahornacký continues to push the boundaries of photography, creating powerful and memorable visual art.