Dane Beesley, Balloon on Broken Wall (URBAN 2025)

My photograph captures a scene of apparent devastation – a crumbling wall, strewn with rubble, evokes a sense of post-apocalyptic ruin. Yet, this is not a scene of monochrome despair. Instead, vibrant hues of yellow, orange, and blue dominate the frame, creating a jarring juxtaposition with the surrounding debris. These colours, normally associated with joy and vibrancy, take on a new meaning in this context, suggesting a persistent, almost defiant, life force pushing through the wreckage. From this shadowed area, a single balloon ascends. This small, fragile object, typically associated with celebration and childhood, becomes a powerful symbol of hope and escape.

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