Conceptual 2nd place winner

Enter the world of Kartoon, where creativity meets tangible reality and creates a new dimension of visual art. This innovative project, created jointly by photographer and artist Aneta Hrenak, is a fusion of creativity and sustainability.

At the heart of the project is a simple material - cardboard. Often underestimated and considered waste, cardboard becomes the foundation for the creation of fascinating optical illusions here. A large white illuminated wall serves as a canvas on which cardboard forms merge with human figures to create interesting and often bewildering visual effects. It's interesting to note that within this project, we utilized cardboard originally destined for disposal, thus engaging in its recycling.

Kartoon is not just about optical illusions and intriguing shapes; it's about connecting human expression with unusual means. It's about expanding the mind and opening new dimensions. So step into the world of Kartoon and let yourself be carried away by the imagination and creativity that transcends the boundaries of the ordinary.

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.