Beguiling, uncanny image wins annual photography prize

This year’s theme was New world order, altered reality, change maker, which invited a wide range of intriguing visual interpretations. Of these, prize sponsor Simon Devitt says Gujin Chung’s winning image is left burned into the judges’ memories.

“It is an image that we, the judges, wish we had or could make. It is at once beguiling, funny and dark. There is an uncanny nature to the image and a significant amount of detail that can be overlooked after the first encounter.”

“The image’s title, 1000 Blind Windows, adds to the ‘Lynch/Jeunet and Caro’ filmic mood and nuance; the small hammer in the left hand, the running shoes and an assemblage of ties sat with an askew collared shirt, the ‘patient’ uncomfortably lounged ready for whatever is coming next.”

In a time where we command and demand as much information as possible about almost everything, an image like this deserves to be left alone with its ambiguous intent. The photographer leaves us with a sensation, a chance encounter with another world, or at least another time outside of where we find ourselves now.

— Simon Devitt Photographer and prize sponsor

“Take a look for yourself and be left with the imprint it leaves on you. No need to ask much of this winning image—Gujin has done it for you.”