Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

21st Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Artistic
Vision Check

"Vision Check," explores the fractured and divisive politics of our time. The woman's gaze, fixed on an eye testing device, is a powerful metaphor for the need for clarity in our political vision. Surrounding the portrait is a Celtic maze, a symbol of the confusing and often contradictory messages we receive from politicians and the media. The horse weathervane, meanwhile, represents the winds of change that are constantly blowing through our political landscape. Perhaps the most striking element of "Vision Check" is the four eyes that appear in the piece. These eyes carry the glaucoma of past fascism and serve as a stark reminder of the dangers of political extremism. "Vision Check" speaks to the urgent need for clarity and unity in our politics. The artist hopes it will inspire meaningful conversations about the future of our democracy.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 08.2023
Date Uploaded: 11.2023
Photo Location: Las Vegas, New Mexico, United States of America
Camera: GFX 100
Copyright: © Carlos Quinto Kemm