We are thrilled to spotlight the winner of our “Aqua Visions” open call, Thorsten Otto Bartelt—a Berlin-based fine art photographer whose vivid approach flows from a passion for both painting and photography. To explore more of his mesmerizing work, be sure to check out his Artrepreneur profile.
Berlin native Thorsten Otto Bartelt is a self-taught fine art photographer whose vivid approach flows from a passion for both painting and photography. From an early age—equipped with a simple Kodak—Bartelt grew fascinated by “unexpected perspectives” of everyday reality, whether the abstract forms of black gloves in the snow or the fleeting glimmer on water’s surface. This fascination still guides his art, as he roams Berlin’s streets and waterways in search of mesmerizing reflections and shadows others might overlook.
Bartelt hunting reflections along the River Spree.
Bartelt’s subject matter often centers on water—particularly the interplay of light and movement in rivers, seas, and even ice formations. His “River Spree” series—exemplified by “River Spree – real moment number 7”—captures the transience of reflected color on Berlin’s iconic river with ultrafast shutter speeds. Meanwhile, in his “Frozen Water Spirits” collection, Bartelt reveals how ice can distort and reshape natural forms into fleeting sculptures.
“River Spree – Real Moment Number 7” (2023)
Cityscapes also play a key role in Bartelt’s work. Citing reflections on shiny car bodies and the multi-hued glow of neon signs, he transforms the familiar into abstract compositions. The image “Berlin City lights in the morning #1” exemplifies how he wields multiple exposures to highlight vibrant color and form—creating painterly photographs that blur the line between realism and abstraction.
“Berlin City Lights In The Morning 1” (2020)
“I would like to capture the beauty of the moment with my camera,” Bartelt explains in his artist statement, “to give us a little longer to enjoy the brief spectacle of moving objects in the light.”
He describes his creative process as a kind of treasure hunt: whether it’s scouting out quiet riverbanks or waiting for the right angle of sunlight on urban metal facades, he’s there with camera in hand—“like a hunter in search of a treasure.” Bartelt believes the conditions must be just right, from wind and water clarity to the presence (or absence) of ducks, to achieve the perfect shot.
While he cherishes surprising viewers with bold abstractions and vibrant color, Bartelt also embraces the emotional nuance in everyday life:
“Through my work, I bring to life the often overlooked beauty and melancholy of the moment.”
This blend of exuberance and reflection is precisely what makes his photography so resonant.
To see more of Thorsten Otto Bartelt’s imagery, visit his Artrepreneur profile or explore his website, bartelt.info.
