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22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest People
Curious Eyes Behind the Painted Doors

While exploring a village adorned with colorful walls, I was greeted by a scene that captured both curiosity and innocence. This photograph depicts a young boy peeking out from behind an intricately painted wooden door. The vibrant geometric patterns on the surrounding wall create a striking contrast to the weathered blue of the door, which bears its own hand-drawn designs. The boy’s intense gaze, framed by the partially open doors, tells a story of intrigue, as though he's momentarily stepping out of the shadows to observe the world beyond his threshold. It’s a candid moment that speaks of childhood wonder amidst a setting rich in tradition and artistic expression.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 10.2022
Date Uploaded: 11.2024
Photo Location: Hatipathar, Purulia, India
Camera: NIKON D750
Copyright: © Debashis Mukherjee