Aesthetica Art Prize alumnus Vikram Kushwah has been selected as a winner for Portrait of Britain 2018. Part of the AAP longlist in 2016 and 2018, and published in Issue 81 of Aesthetica, his compelling images illustrate the complexities of the subconscious, reflecting on the boundaries between truth and fiction.

Looking to authentic, deeply human stories, Kushwah’s winning work, Regrowth, features 14-year-old Jasmine, who is currently undergoing a second year of cancer treatment. The portrait is part of a poignant series about acceptance and change, with each image celebrating life. Reflecting upon the notion of strength, the minimal compositions offer viewers a powerful insight into her interior world.

Regrowth is currently on display across JCDecaux billboards as part of a nationwide public exhibition capturing the wealth of human experience. Transforming bus stops, high streets and train stations around the UK, the award celebrates the nation’s diversity whilst offering new perspectives on everyday commutes. Comprising a wide range of photographic approaches by a variety of artists, the initiative captures the evolving landscape of contemporary Britain through emerging and established visionaries.

In addition to the show, a publication by British Journal of Photography and Hoxton Mini Press features 200 winning and shortlisted images, offering a comprehensive look at contemporary Britain.

The book is available now. Find out more here.

Credits:
1. Vikram Kushwah, Jasmine, from the series Regrowth.