Hailing from the picturesque town of Dubnica nad Váhom in Slovakia, Michaela Ďurišová’s artistic journey is a tapestry of creativity, resilience, and a profound connection to her roots. The 3rd prize winner of the Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize 2023 INPRNT Photography Award, Michaela Ďurišová’s story is one of serendipity and transformation.
Michaela’s artistic odyssey began with a diverse range of disciplines, from music and set design to crafting exquisite jewelry. Photography entered her life unexpectedly when she sought to capture her jewelry creations. However, a pivotal photoshoot with her mother in 2018 marked a turning point, catapulting her into a new career as a photographer.
Michaela Ďurišová and her mother’s relationship is a testament to love, support, and mutual respect. Michaela reflects on the impact of photoshoots on bringing them closer, emphasizing the importance of both independence and a strong emotional bond. The unique dynamic between them adds a personal touch to Michaela’s work.
In an exclusive interview, Michaela shares insights into her artistic evolution, unique style, and the emotional resonance of her work. With each click of the shutter, she transports viewers into a realm of whimsy and introspection, using photography as a powerful medium for storytelling and self-discovery. Michaela’s style embodies a mix of fantasy and personal expression, driven by a love for stories, visuals, and deep philosophical thought.
Reflection of Slovak Culture
Slovakia holds a unique charm rooted in traditions, folklore, and natural beauty. Michaela Ďurišová emphasizes the rich cultural heritage of Slovakia, acknowledging the influence of artists like Alfonz Mucha and the unique Slavic poetic art and rhetoric. Despite the country’s deep traditions, Michaela notes a hesitancy among the youth to embrace their roots fully.
Reflecting on her own work, Michaela draws inspiration from Slovakian secession and Slavic customs, with plans to explore and integrate folklore into her photography in the future. For now, her approach to photography is intuitive, ensuring authenticity and a genuine connection to the subjects she captures.
Winning Work: Fairy Godmother
Michaela Ďurišová’s winning photograph, “Fairy Godmother,” created specifically for the Beautiful Bizarre Art Prize, offers a nuanced perspective on the fairy archetype. Departing from conventional depictions, Michaela chose a moth metaphor as a paraphrase of childhood nightmares, with her mother symbolically chasing away ghosts. The photograph explores themes of mature age, beauty, and being unwanted, inviting viewers to find their own interpretations.
The play of light in Michaela’s work serves as a psychological element, creating a dialogue between the viewer and the photographer. “Fairy Godmother” becomes a canvas for Michaela to share her emotions and worldview, encouraging viewers to find beauty even in challenging moments.
Design of a Scene
Michaela Ďurišová’s creative process extends to designing and putting together her own sets. Collaborating with a group known as “Desperate Women,” including a makeup artist, a model, and a friend, Michaela engages in improvisation and spontaneous creativity. Together, they bring her visions to life, combining elements of fantasy and personal expression.
Models in Michaela’s work play a crucial role in conveying genuine emotions. She seeks models who exude deep, authentic emotions and often look for common features like long hair, freckles, and a healthy self-perception. Michaela’s emphasis on portraying happiness and confidence challenges societal ideals of beauty, promoting self-acceptance and authenticity.
With a vast collection of costumes and collaborations with various designers, Michaela Ďurišová’s studio is a treasure trove of creativity. She mentions collaborations with designers like Chotronette and Laura Bordei, emphasizing her love for both custom-made dresses and vintage theater costumes. Michaela dreams of establishing more collaborations with designers to enhance the artistic quality of her work.
In conclusion, Michaela Ďurišová’s artistic journey is a testament to the power of intuition, authenticity, and a deep connection to one’s roots. Through her lens, she invites viewers to embrace the beauty in every moment, turning life’s contrasts into captivating visual stories. As Michaela continues to evolve as an artist, her enchanting creations promise to transport audiences into realms of imagination and emotion.
