Interview about Peace Photo Collage, winner of the A' Photography and Photo Manipulation Design Award 2023
The design concepts conveyed by this collage are balance and harmony. Each of the hands around the woman reinforces the presence of the others, and the design falls apart if any of the hands are missing or placed out of balance. The woman and the multiple hands around her were conceived as an integrated design. Because each source material differs in size, brightness, and color from the others, each hand was manipulated individually to create a sense of coherence. This work gives form to a design hierarchy based on equality, as its title suggests.
View detailed images, specifications, and award details on A' Design Award & Competition website.
View Design DetailsDuring the creation of “Peace Photo Collage” in June 2020, the world was grappling with unprecedented challenges brought about by the pandemic. The pervasive sense of isolation and fragmentation deeply affected me. Personally, I felt a profound need to convey a message of unity and collective resilience. The placement of multiple hands encircling the central female figure symbolizes the interconnectedness of humanity. Each hand represents different individuals coming together, transcending barriers of culture, race, and geography. My personal experience of witnessing global solidarity amidst adversity inspired me to depict this harmonious embrace, emphasizing that despite our physical separations, our spirits remain entwined.
The use of gold accents in the collage serves as a universal symbol of value, purity, and enlightenment across various cultures. By integrating gold into the piece, I aimed to elevate the subjects, imbuing them with a sense of sacredness and worth. The meticulous pixel placement reflects my commitment to precision and harmony, ensuring that each element contributes meaningfully to the whole. This attention to detail was inspired by the concept of equality—every pixel, like every individual, holds significance in creating the complete image. The aesthetic choices were deliberate, intending to visually communicate that all lives are precious and interconnected, reinforcing the message of universal equality.
The creation process involved carefully selecting and integrating various photographic elements, each with its unique lighting and coloration. I began by individually editing each hand in Adobe Lightroom, adjusting brightness, contrast, and color balance to establish a uniform visual tone. This was followed by precise placement in Adobe Photoshop, where I paid close attention to the angle, position, and scale to ensure natural interaction with the central figure. Layer masks and blending modes were utilized to harmonize shadows and highlights, creating a cohesive look. The challenge was to make disparate elements appear as if they were originally part of the same scene, requiring iterative refinements and a keen eye for subtle nuances in light and color.
The central female figure was chosen as a universal symbol of humanity’s dual nature—our inherent vulnerability and innate strength. She represents the collective human spirit enduring through hardship while radiating resilience. In the context of the global challenges faced during the pandemic, I felt it essential to highlight this dichotomy. Her serene yet resolute expression serves as a beacon of hope and compassion. By positioning her at the focal point, surrounded by supportive hands, I aimed to depict the idea that strength arises not only from within but also through unity and mutual support. This portrayal underscores the message that every individual, regardless of background, contributes to the fabric of our shared existence.
Creating the collage during such a tumultuous time profoundly influenced both my artistic vision and technical execution. The pervasive atmosphere of uncertainty and the collective yearning for connection informed my decision to focus on themes of unity and peace. Technically, I was compelled to approach the composition with greater sensitivity, ensuring that each element conveyed the intended emotional resonance. The limited physical interactions prompted me to explore deeper digital collaboration and expression. The urgency of the moment drove me to work intensively, completing the piece within a week, as I sought to capture and reflect the zeitgeist—a world striving for equilibrium amidst chaos.
The hands symbolize different facets of humanity coming together to form a greater whole—a higher being embodying collective peace and harmony. In selecting each hand, I considered diversity in form and gesture to represent various cultures and experiences. Their positioning around the central figure was meticulously planned to create a sense of balance and movement, suggesting an embrace or a protective aura. The arrangement is reminiscent of a mandala, conveying spiritual unity and completeness. This configuration aims to illustrate that peace is achieved through the harmonious collaboration of individuals, each contributing their unique essence to the creation of something transcendent.
My journey began with web design at the age of 16, where I developed a foundation in digital aesthetics and technical skills. Over the years, my experience as a system engineer and app developer honed my precision and attention to detail. Merging traditional art concepts with advanced digital techniques in “Peace Photo Collage” represents the culmination of my multidisciplinary background. The fusion allows me to explore complex themes with greater depth and flexibility. It reflects an evolution from purely functional design to expressive artistry, utilizing technology not just as a tool but as an integral medium to convey nuanced messages. This synergy embodies my growth and continuous pursuit of innovation in visual expression.
The dimensions of 840mm x 600mm were chosen to create an immersive experience without overwhelming the viewer. This size is slightly larger than A1, allowing for detailed intricacies to be appreciated while maintaining an intimate connection. The scale facilitates a balance between grandeur and accessibility, inviting viewers to engage closely with the piece. It provides ample space to showcase the elaborate details, such as the subtle expressions and the intricate interplay of the hands. The intention was to enhance the emotional impact by ensuring that the composition commands attention and encourages contemplation, effectively conveying the profound themes of unity and peace.
Receiving the Gold A’ Design Award is both an honor and a motivator to delve deeper into global social themes. This recognition affirms the resonance of my work with a wider audience and encourages me to continue using digital art as a platform for meaningful dialogue. I envision expanding my explorations to address pressing issues such as environmental conservation, social justice, and cultural convergence. The award provides greater visibility, enabling collaborations and initiatives that can amplify the impact of my messages. It reinforces my commitment to create art that not only reflects but also influences positive change in the world.
Translating the multifaceted nature of human existence into a singular image required an integrative approach. I began by identifying core themes that universally affect humanity—peace, unity, and equality. Drawing inspiration from Japanese Buddhist teachings, I sought to encapsulate these concepts through symbolic elements. The central figure and surrounding hands represent the interconnected systems of society, culture, and spirituality. I employed a meticulous layering technique, with over 200 layers, to weave together various symbols seamlessly. The use of non-destructive editing allowed for continuous refinement, ensuring that each component contributed to the overall narrative. The challenge was to maintain coherence while embodying complexity, ultimately creating an image that invites reflection and offers solace.
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