Jung-Mei Wou

I began learning photography during my university years through an elective course as part of my fine art major.

Yes, I remember clearly! During my university years as an art major, I used my father's Asahi Pentax Spotmatic to capture black-and-white photos of my family in our garden. Developing these images in the darkroom was a fascinating experience. I was also impressed by how the same camera captured classic architecture during a European trip at the end of my freshman year. Before transitioning to digital, I worked with a Nikon FM2, and now work with a full-frame Nikon digital camera. Photography remains a crucial medium for documenting and expressing my artistic creations.

I currently use a full-frame Nikon, but even modest equipment can achieve outstanding results when guided by vision and creativity behind the lens.

The most inspiring compliment I received was when someone remarked that my work not only captures the visible form but also conveys an abstract, poetic essence. They saw in my photography a balance of elegance and strength—a harmony that touches the heart and resonates deeply with the beauty and power inherent in the subject. This recognition of the intangible qualities in my work reaffirmed my belief in the profound impact that art can have on the human spirit.

My storytelling is deeply inspired by nature, light, shadow, and the sculptural sense of space. Each element weaves together to convey a narrative beyond what is immediately visible.

Poetic, evocative and ethereal.

Winning in the the MUSE Photography Awards is a profound honor. It affirms the dedication and creativity of me. This recognition fuels my passion to continue exploring and pushing the boundaries of artistic expression.

The winning works I entered into the MUSE Photography Awards are reflections of my exploration of form, light, and the balance between the tangible and intangible. "Dandelion Fantasia" captures a stainless steel dandelion sculpture animated by light, evoking a journey through nature's fleeting beauty. "Galaxy" draws inspiration from the textures of metal sculptures, connecting them to the vast complexity of the Milky Way, creating an abstract cosmic parallel. "Soaring Beyond Limits" embodies the essence of flight through my sculpture "Flying," symbolizing the boundless potential of the human spirit. "The Winged Nike" captures a bird in flight, a visual ode to the pursuit of freedom. I entered these projects because they blend my sculptural and photographic practices, pushing the boundaries of traditional photography by merging physical form with light and shadow, inviting deeper emotional and conceptual engagement.

Winning this award has significantly elevated my visibility in the global art community, opening doors to new collaborations and projects. It also reaffirms the importance of pursuing one's unique vision in the creative process.

Henri Cartier-Bresson, Ueda Shoji, and Hiroshi Sugimoto.

The best advice I received was to always trust my instincts and let my intuition guide my creative process. Authenticity in art comes from within.

Focus on developing your unique voice and perspective. Photography is not just about capturing an image; it’s about telling a story, conveying emotion, and connecting with your audience on a deeper level.

My key to success is persistence, staying true to my vision, and continuously seeking inspiration from the world around me. Success comes from a blend of passion, hard work, and a willingness to embrace new challenges.

I remain open by continuously exploring new ideas, engaging with different art forms, and being curious about the world.

If I‘m honored to be considered as a judge for the MUSE Photography Awards, I would approach the role with great enthusiasm and humility. My experience and passion for photography would guide me in fairly recognizing and celebrating exceptional talent while encouraging more artists to share their unique work.