Honorable Mention
Mystical reverie
DESCRIPTION
In the evocative picture, the model, Svetlana, stands as an ethereal figure, fully enveloped in a medical bandage, akin to those used for burn treatment. The studio setting is classical, with a black backdrop that accentuates the surreal composition. Cascades of fleece descend from the ceiling, surrounding her body and blurred to create a dreamlike ambiance. This scene is reminiscent of a vision from a reverie, where the boundaries of reality and imagination blur.Svetlana, one of the most talented models I have had the pleasure of working with, is presented not through the lens of seduction or eroticism, but through the unique and haunting contours of her body. The bandage cloaks her body, hiding and revealing in equal measure, with her breasts presented in a subtle, non-erotic manner and her hands delicately concealing her intimate area.
The choice of fleece and medical bandage serves to evoke multiple layers of interpretation. The bandage might symbolize healing, protection, or the scars of past experiences, suggesting a narrative of recovery and strength. The fleece, soft and dreamlike, contrasts with the clinical rigidity of the bandage, creating a juxtaposition that invites viewers to ponder the interplay between fantasy and reality.
This picture captures a dreamscape where Svetlana emerges as a spectral presence, embodying both fragility and fortitude. The blurred fleece envelops her like mist in a dream, adding an element of otherworldly mystery. This dream could signify a desire to connect with an idealized form of human grace and tenacity, untainted by the trappings of physical charm. The theme revolves around the subconscious exploration of beauty, resilience, and the deeper, non-physical essence of human presence.
AUTHOR
Eric is a French amateur photographer who is considered by many to be more of a photo artist, not least because of his style and the international awards he has received in recent years. He creates most of his nudes in Germany, Hungary, and Croatia.Venusonearth has been his project for 20 years. It consists of his website, his presence in social media, and his participation in international contests. Eric’s track record includes prints in magazines like PHOTO in France, VIEW in Germany, several books from the Trierenberg super circuit and Dodho, Motiva, and contest catalogues. Recent awards include being the 3rd place winner at Monovisions 2023 and a Gold winner at the Muse Photography Awards. Many honorable mentions are among his other references. His participation in PSA-sponsored competitions has been rewarded with several gold medals. Back in 2012, his own exhibition took place at the Miskolci Fotógaleria in Miskolc, Hungary.
Eric has been able to evolve from mainstream to artistic photography thanks to three artists. Back in the late 90s, he practiced high-quality photography with the German photographer Arboulan. In 2004, he started to learn from the Hungarian artist Szeni Jung at the so-called Sebesviz workshop, a summer camp he's attended more than ten times since. He is now being coached by Sandor Benkoe, also an Hungarian artist.
Today, Eric has worked with more than 100 amateur models and succeeded in getting international recognition. The best way to describe what has become his passion is a quote from Richard Avedon he read in 2023 at an exhibition in Palermo, Sicily: “If a day goes by without my doing something related to photography, it’s as though I’ve neglected something essential to my existence, as though I had forgotten to wake up".
