The Man Who Walked through the Wall by Mirka Krivankova

Captured in the historic Montmartre district of Paris, this photograph documents the whimsical sculpture of Dutilleul, the protagonist of Marcel Aymé’s famous tale who possessed the supernatural ability to walk through walls. The photographer frames the sculpture—depicting the character trapped mid-transit—against the atmospheric backdrop of Rue Norvins. By focusing on the protruding limbs and head emerging from the masonry, the image blurs the line between urban architecture and literary fantasy. This piece is award-worthy for its clever juxtaposition of a static, inanimate sculpture with the dynamic, legendary narrative of the man who defied physical boundaries, inviting viewers to pause and engage with the hidden folklore of the city.