TITLE: Portrait of a Poet - A Journey Through Layers

This series of monochromatic portraits explores the multifaceted persona of Manka Menga, a poet whose work challenges societal norms. Through a blend of wide-angle and narrow lenses, and the use of light painting techniques, we have captured the poet's inner and outer journeys. The distinctive lines adorning her face, a result of a personal ritual honoring her grandmother, serve as a visual metaphor for her connection to tradition and her unique path. Each image reveals a new facet of her identity, inviting viewers to contemplate the interplay between the personal and the universal.

AUTHOR: Piotr Skubisz (Poland)

Piotr Skubisz is a photographer with a passion for portrait and body photography. Explores themes of self-discovery and cultural identity. Drawing inspiration from studies at The Film School in Lodz and Polish Studies at the University of Warsaw, where he developed an interest in cultural anthropology, his images blend aesthetics with reflection. Recognized for his work, was shortlisted at the prestigious Sony World Photography Awards 2025. Received a Gold and Bronze medal at the PX3 2024 and an official selection in the IPA.
Based in Warsaw but enjoys traveling, eager to explore new horizons.


Awards & Recognition (2024-2025)
• 2025 SWPA Sony World Photography Awards, Shortlist, Open competition, Portraiture
• 2024 PX3, The Prix de la Photographie, Paris): Gold and Bronze Medal (Portrait) 
• 2024 ReFocus The World Photo Annual Awards: Silver Medal (Fine Art), Bronze Medal (People), Bronze Medal (Portrait)
• 2024 TIFA, Tokyo International Foto Awards: Bronze Medal (People-Portrait), Honorable Mentions (4x) 
• 2024 Monochrome Awards: 3rd Place (Portrait), Honorable Mentions (2x) 
• 2024 IPA (The International Photography Awards): Official Selection (Fine Art-Portrait, People-Lifestyle, People-Traditions/Culture) 
• 2024 FAPA, Fine Art Photography Awards, 3x Nominee in Portrait
• 2024 Brodziak Academy: TOP10 Masters of Creation 
• 2024 Annual Photography Awards, Honorable Mentions (3x People: Portraiture) 

• 2024 Life Framer: Black & White Editors’ Pick 
• 2025 LensCulture New Visions 2025, Humanity: Editors' Pick​​​​​​