Honorable Mention
Fractal Symmetry
DESCRIPTION
As a trained photographer, I delve into the fascinating world of architecture, creating my own universe. Always on the lookout for worthwhile subjects for my exceptional architectural art, I am inspired by towering skyscrapers that seemingly stretch endlessly into the sky, distinctive corporate buildings, ancient castles where the spirit of the Middle Ages is still palpable, and historic villas whose facades leave beholders in awe. I take the time to study a structure in different lighting conditions, uncovering its best aspects. Through my artistic and elaborate image editing, a surreal transformation takes place, where the building becomes an abstract object with remarkable depth through reflections, distortions, and skillfully placed shades. Through my highly precise image editing, my works can be printed in sizes of up to four meters. Each piece is unique and is shaped by the distinctive characteristics of the original building. I create symmetrical compositions that transport viewers to another dimension, capturing the essence of architecture in a new and compelling way. My artworks are a harmonious fusion of reality and abstraction, inviting the viewer to transcend the boundaries of the familiar and experience the beauty of architecture through my unique artistic perspective. AUTHOR
Born on December 18, 1986, in Stuttgart, Ralf Engelsmann is an artist whose journey has been marked by a leap of discovery and constant evolution. In his quest for identity, goals, and the right expression for his creative energy, he found his passion in photography.However, his professional journey began in a different industry. At the age of 16, he embarked on an apprenticeship as an automotive mechatronics technician, but it soon became clear to him that he did not want to pursue this career path for his entire life. A brief but influential period in the military fueled his curiosity for new experiences.
In 2013, he got his hands on a DSLR camera, which immediately turned his life upside down. Photography ignited a passion for creative work in Ralf. As it was not immediately clear which specific area he wanted to pursue, he experimented with various genres, including concert, portrait, wedding, and dance photography. In 2015, Ralf decided to undertake an apprenticeship as an advertising photographer and found a suitable training position in Karlsruhe.
After successfully completing the program in 2018, he desired to combine his former career as an automotive mechatronics technician with photography in the automotive industry. However, this dream was interrupted by the sudden spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, which brought the entire world to a standstill. During the first lockdown in 2020, Ralf stumbled upon abstractly photographed architectural shots while reviewing old pictures. A sudden impulse prompted him to mirror the images, thus sowing the seed for his current art. As life slowly recovered from the pandemic in mid-2021, he realized that automotive photography was not the right path for him either. Eventually, he remembered his beginnings and the long-held desire for his own exhibition. With great concentration and effort, he managed to organize his