The False Illusion by Andre Boto

The image above conveys a strong message on capitalism and climate change. Pictured is a man hanging up a tapestry depicting a stream, but behind this is the gray, dismal scene of factories and pollution. The primary message I examine from the photo is how government officials, higher-ups, CEOs, and other people in positions of power have been disguising the consequences of mass production on our environment to continue making a profit. They keep telling us that climate change is not real, but it is, and it is here.

What I love about this picture is how you can interpret so many details through its design. The placement of each components is spaced so that you can clearly see what is happening, while also being able to discover more when looking closer; for example, you see the businessman but then look down by his feet and their is a briefcase, but look closer and you see that it is stuffed with money. These details strengthen the statement.

Colors play a crucial role in evoking emotion from the audience. Here, we have a stark contrast between the bright colors of the false and the grey, depressing reality. It shows us the sad truth of what’s to come. It also communicates that corporations and their carbon emissions are the evil culprits. Using these elements, the creator can portray the seriousness of the issue, which should ignite feelings of fear, anger, or sadness in response to climate change. And hopefully, the artwork will inspire people to rebel and stand up for themselves and the planet.

This image won the overall winner title at the 2022 Creative Photo Awards.