23rd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
The Hidden Gaze

The torn wall just becomes a frame for a woman. The bright red nails press against the fragile edge, hinting at both fear and curiosity. The bold blue and red colors surrounding the face turn this small act of looking into a larger story of fear, discovery, and human resilience.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 09.2025
Date Uploaded: 12.2025
Photo Location: Bagan, Myanmar, Myanmar
Camera: --
Copyright: © Aung Kyaw Zaw