Interview: Manuel Kokseder
Luca Curci talks with Manuel Kokseder during THE BODY LANGUAGE 2025, at Palazzo Albrizzi-Capello in Venice.

As an award-winning photographer, I strive to reveal the hidden beauty of the world’s most unassuming places. Through my lens, I capture thought-provoking moments that offer a deeper appreciation for our surroundings. With a commitment to true-to-life colours and masterful composition, my images draw viewers in, guiding their eyes through carefully balanced elements that leave a lasting impression. My goal is to create something never seen before visual stories that fascinate, evoke emotion, and awaken curiosity. My work has been recognized on international stages, earning accolades such as Sports Photographer of the Year (2024 1839 Awards) and multiple honors from the International Photography Awards, World Masters of Photography, Federation of European Photographers, and the World Photographic Cup.

Notably, my image “Library” was named the Best Summer Sports Picture 2024 by the International Photography Awards, while my photograph “Welcome to Heaven” secured first place in Austria’s National Photography Awards. Additionally, I was a semi-finalist in the prestigious Red Bull Illume competition, ranking among the top 256 images from over 40,000 entries. Beyond my own work, I am passionate about sharing my knowledge, collaborating on creative projects, and continuously pushing the boundaries of photography with professionalism and careful attention to detail.

Luca Curci – How did you get to your current artistic practice?
Manuel Kokseder – My photographic journey began in 2016, and getting started was anything but easy. With no natural talent and no understanding of color or composition, I had to learn everything from scratch. The reason why I am at this point today is quite simple: I just enjoy photography. It’s my way of documenting my life and creating something unique, something that only I saw through the viewfinder at that exact moment. With the camera in my hand, I can be myself without having to fulfil expectations. As an introvert, I often find it difficult to express myself, but photography gives me a voice. It allows me to communicate my thoughts, emotions and perspectives visually. I am constantly working on my weaknesses, growing with each new challenge, and continuously developing both as an artist and as a person.

LC – Which artists have somehow influenced your work?
MK – A really good question! Many artists and photographers have impressed and inspired me on my journey. Annie Leibovitz and Andre Josselin were particularly influential for me, but my biggest role model is Steve McCurry. An unforgettable moment was our meeting at the International Photography Awards 2023 in New York. When he signed my notebook, I was so nervous that it almost fell out of my hand. Experiences like that are proof to me that all the hard work and the long journey are worth it!

LC – Where do you find your inspiration?
MK – I don’t have a fixed source of inspiration like social media. Instead, I consciously look for new perspectives and take inspiration from books, magazines, music and art to create my images differently by thinking outside the box. My best ideas come to me when I’m alone and listening to music. Then my thoughts swirl aimlessly through the room, bounce off walls and multiply until finally a clear overall picture forms in my head. This creative energy accompanies me not only in photography, but also in everyday life; at the same time, I find it difficult to concentrate on things that don’t offer any creative freedom.

LC – Do you use art to express something in particular? Is it your medium of expression?
MK – I find it difficult to express myself to other people through words. But photography gives me exactly this opportunity; it is my channel to the world. Through my pictures, I can portray my feelings, thoughts and perfectionism as I really am. With every shot, I say what I want to express in my own way, without words, but with full intensity. My aim is to create something that has never been seen before.

LC – Do you think ITSLIQUID GROUP can represent an opportunity for artists?
MK – This is my first collaboration with ITSLIQUID, and it has not only given me the opportunity to get to know a new city, but also the people behind this group. In my opinion, ITSLIQUID offers a great platform to share your art with the world and, at the same time, exchange ideas with other artists. This connection and creative dialogue make the experience particularly valuable.

LC – What is your idea about ITSLIQUID GROUP?
MK – I found the group to be very reliable and artistically oriented. We were given a Venice guide who helped us to understand the culture of the city even better. The whole experience was uncomplicated and enriching, and the support we received was instrumental in making it a really positive experience.