Penumbra: A Silver A' Design Award Winner

Maja Zinczuk's Unique Approach to Photography Amidst a Global Pandemic

Maja Zinczuk, a renowned photographer, found inspiration in Caravaggio's paintings, particularly his use of sharp contrasts and chiaroscuro. She aimed to capture the clash of reality and spirituality, a theme prevalent in Caravaggio's work. The subjects of her photographs were people she knew well, allowing her to reveal their true nature, interests, and feelings.

Penumbra stands out for its unique approach to photography during the global pandemic. The project's strength lies in its ability to depict life during this challenging time using minimal resources. Everyday objects found in the house were utilized to create these captivating images.

The technical realization of Penumbra involved the use of various objects found around the house, including bowls of water, reflective materials, and decorative lamps. The photographs were taken in the homes of the subjects or in their immediate surroundings. Zinczuk used a Nikon D800 camera, shooting in black and white mode for most of the images.

The project was conducted in 2019 in Białystok, Poland. The primary locations for the shoots were the homes of the subjects and their surroundings. The project's research focused on capturing fleeting moments in everyday life, revealing things that might otherwise be overlooked.

Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic, including restrictions on movement, Zinczuk successfully created a compelling narrative through her photographs. Her creativity was triggered by the prolonged stay-at-home orders, leading her to use everyday objects to model light and create stunning images.

Penumbra was recognized with a Silver A' Design Award in 2021, a prestigious accolade awarded to designs that demonstrate outstanding expertise and innovation. This project is a testament to Zinczuk's remarkable artistic skill and technical prowess, and it continues to inspire awe and admiration among viewers.