The world of photography often serves as a mirror, reflecting the beauty and challenges of our existence. This year, Paul Szimák’s extraordinary series, “Fine Art of Resilience,” has captured the hearts of judges and audiences alike, earning him the prestigious title of Fine Art Photographer of the Year at the International Photography Awards.
Paul Szimák: A Brief Biography
Paul Szimák is a multifaceted artist with over 100 years of professional experience (as he says so himself) in various creative fields. He has dedicated himself to photography for 20 years, building a distinctive style that blends classical techniques with modern sensibilities. In addition to his photographic endeavors, Szimák has an extensive background in writing, advertising, marketing, and the arts.
Having spent 30 years playing piano and 7 years pursuing double studies at WU, Szimák’s diverse experiences enrich his artistic vision. He has also worked at the esteemed Vienna Burgtheater and has directed a musical ensemble, showcasing his versatility and passion for the arts. Collaborating with top graphic studios and advertising agencies, Szimák continues to foster relationships with successful companies and creative professionals, further enhancing his artistic network.
A Visual Journey with Gaia
At the core of Szimák’s work is Gaia, the Greek goddess of nature, symbolizing the earth’s beauty and fragility. Throughout the series, Gaia is depicted in various forms, always exuding a timeless beauty that belies her troubled state. Szimák masterfully intertwines elements of classical art with contemporary photography, creating a striking commentary on our relationship with nature.
Fine Art of Resilience by Paul Szimák
Each photograph invites viewers to explore the duality of Gaia—radiant, yet vulnerable. This juxtaposition is not only visually captivating but also prompts deeper reflection on the environmental challenges we face today.
The Artistic Process
Szimák’s meticulous approach to photography sets his work apart. Using a LEICA SL2 camera and a LEICA APO-SL 50 mm lens, he captures stunningly detailed images, employing a technical setup that includes multiple Profoto D1 lights and an Octabox for optimal lighting. However, it’s the post-processing where the true magic happens.
Szimák eschews modern AI tools, opting instead for traditional retouching techniques reminiscent of the Old Masters. Techniques such as sfumato, tenebrism, and chiaroscuro are employed to create a seamless blend of photography and painting. This labor-intensive process takes weeks, showcasing Szimák’s dedication to craftsmanship and authenticity.
You can see sfumato and chiaroscuro in paintings such as Da Vinci’s Mona Lisa, and tenebrist paintings in the Baroque period, like in Rembrandt’s paintings.
By Leonardo da Vinci – Cropped and relevelled from File:Mona Lisa, by Leonardo da Vinci, from C2RMF.jpg. Originally C2RMF: Galerie de tableaux en très haute définition: image page, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=15442524
A Message of Hope and Awareness
“Fine Art of Resilience” is not just a visual feast; it’s a call to action. By embodying Gaia in such a striking manner, Szimák highlights the urgent need to nurture and protect our planet. His work serves as a reminder that while nature may appear strong and beautiful, it is also at risk, requiring our collective responsibility.
Conclusion
Paul Szimák’s recognition at the International Photography Awards underscores the power of art to inspire change. His series, rooted in the themes of resilience and environmental awareness, invites us to reflect on our own impact on the earth. As we admire the beauty of Gaia, let us also commit to safeguarding her for future generations.
View all 2024 IPA winning photographs here.