Conceptual nominee

The series of photographs feature seven portraits of survivors of Torture from around the world who fled their home countries seeking safety, recovery and political asylum. Most were tortured by repressive governments for “reasons” as varied as joining opposition political organisations, criticising their governments publicly, refusing to join the ruling party, being related to a political dissident or because of their religion or sexual orientation.
Survivors are the strongest and most effective voice in the campaign to abolish torture.
I wanted to capture a series of beautiful and powerful portraits showing a deeper vision of who they are. Not all survivors want to be recognised for fear of repercussions to friends and family. Rather than adjust studio lighting to obscure their identity I opted to project images selected by and significant for, each individual. The projected images become part of their skin like tattoos or scars.
The pictures are accompanied with statements from the individuals and explanations about their selected projected images, that capture the courage and determination that led them to seek assistance.

Jonathan Banks is an award-winning photographer with over 20 years of experience. Jonathan studied under the prolific artist John Blakemore, and graduated from the University of Derby with a BA honours in Photographic Studies. He cut his teeth in editorial photography freelancing for The Daily Telegraph and various agencies. His work has appeared in international magazines including - The Sunday Times, Vanity Fair and Le Figaro. Jonathan has exhibited several bodies of work as a solo artist, as well as in conjunction with other photographers in the UK and abroad. These have ranged from - personal projects to editorial assignments and photographs supporting various charities. In addition, Jonathan's photographs have been published in several books.
Notable awards and exhibitions
Shortlisted Sony World Photo Awards
Peoples choice - Foto8
Winner of PDN World in Focus / Color Awards Photojournalism
Nominations and honorable mentions in IPA, PX3, Travel Photographer of the Year, PDN World In Focus, B&W Spider Awards, Humanity Photo Awards / ND Awards / Lensculture Awards / Magnum Photo Awards / Minds Eye
Exhibitions at the EU Parliament in Brussels / SW1 Gallery / Royal Photographic Society / Times Square Screens / Louvre / Art Basel Miami