In a remarkable testament to the power of vision and perseverance, Panji Indra Permana (@panjiindra)has etched his name into the annals of photographic excellence. Winning the Portrait Category at the prestigious Hasselblad Master 2023, Panji’s achievement stands as a beacon of inspiration for photographers worldwide. With a career spanning over two decades, his latest project, The Cyclist Portrait (@thecyclistportrait), has captivated the industry with its poignant exploration of cycling culture. We had the privilege to delve into Panji’s journey, uncovering the essence of his creative process and the story behind his award-winning work.
Can you start by telling us about yourself and your profession?
My name is Panji Indra Permana, and I am a professional photographer specialising in editorial and commercial photography. I embarked on my photographic journey in 2000 and began my professional career in 2003. From 2004 to 2010, I worked as an in-house photographer for a fashion magazine in the capital city. Following this, I transitioned to freelance work, contributing to various magazines and engaging in commercial projects.
What inspired you to create @thecyclistportrait, and can you tell us about its journey?
The Cyclist Portrait (TCP) began as a project during the pandemic. Witnessing the dramatic rise in cycling as a new lifestyle choice, I was inspired to document this trend. As an avid cyclist since 2010, I saw an opportunity to capture the essence of this growing movement. Initially intended as a lifestyle photography project, TCP evolved into a social campaign aimed at promoting cycling as an alternative transportation mode. It seeks to increase public awareness about cyclists and foster a ‘share the road’ mentality among all road users.
Can you share some of the influencers or role models who have significantly shaped your work and style?
For The Cyclist Portrait (TCP), I was significantly inspired by Scott Schuman, known as The Sartorialist, whose street style portraits I greatly admire. In the realm of editorial photography, the works of the late Peter Lindbergh, Paolo Roversi, and Patrick Demarchellier have been influential. Additionally, I draw inspiration from fashion photographers such as Nick Knight, Tim Walker, and the duo Mert Alas and Marcus Piggott.
Could you share the story behind your winning photos and what inspired you to create them? Why use a hanging background concept?
The photos that won the Hasselblad Master award were among the early portraits in TCP, capturing local street vendors near my home. I even photographed some vendors right in front of my house. The grey backdrop was chosen not only as a distinctive feature of TCP but also as a symbol of the urban environment. It represents the grey roads we all share, highlighting that regardless of our bicycles, we are all equal against this backdrop.
What are your plans for the future with @thecyclistportrait?
TCP plans to tour around Java, capturing portraits of street vendors and cycling communities across the island. We also hope to expand the project beyond Java and potentially publish a book to showcase the journey.
What challenges did you face with @thecyclistportrait?
Maintaining consistency in photographing street vendors has been challenging, particularly while managing commercial work. The process requires substantial time and effort, as I conduct these photo hunts while cycling and carrying all my equipment and the distinctive grey backdrop.
Among the numerous photos captured by @thecyclistportrait, which are your personal favourites and why?
One of my favourite works is the portrait of Pak Bodong, a banana vendor who recently won an award. His dedication despite his age is truly inspiring. I also enjoy supporting cycling events within the community, as they offer dynamic expressions and exciting styles.
What advice would you give to aspiring photographers who want to create inspiring artwork?
Find a personal project with a theme you are passionate about, so you can continuously enjoy the process. Remain consistent in your work, making it a routine that fosters your creativity.
Panji Indra Permana’s triumph at the Hasselblad Master 2023 is more than a personal achievement; it is a celebration of the intersection between passion and artistry. His project, The Cyclist Portrait, exemplifies how a creative vision can resonate on both a local and global scale. Through his lens, Panji captures not just images but stories, uniting people through the shared experience of cycling. As we congratulate him on this well-deserved accolade, we are reminded of the power of perseverance and the impact of personal projects in shaping the world of photography. Panji’s journey is a poignant reminder that with dedication and creativity, extraordinary achievements are within reach.
