New Synchronized Photographs of Swimmers by Mária Švarbová

Mária Švarbová and the Aesthetics of Stillness

New photographs by Mária Švarbová continue her long-standing interest in swimming pools as quiet, controlled spaces. At first glance, these images appear calm and orderly. However, the stillness they present is deliberate rather than natural. As a result, the scenes feel thoughtful and slightly uneasy rather than relaxed.

Synchronisation Instead of Play

In this series, young swimmers are shown standing or sitting in matching outfits, carefully posed. Instead of movement and noise, there is order and restraint. Moreover, their neutral expressions remove any sense of personal story. In contrast to typical pool scenes, playfulness is replaced by discipline and control.

Because of this, the figures seem paused in time. They are present, yet emotionally distant. This choice reinforces Švarbová’s focus on structure, repetition, and visual balance.

The Swimming Pool as a Designed Space

The swimming pool itself becomes a key subject. Rather than acting as a backdrop, it functions as a designed interior. Clean lines, flat colours, and strict symmetry shape the scene. Consequently, the pool resembles a modernist set rather than a place for leisure.

In addition, the controlled space mirrors the figures’ behaviour within it. Architecture and human presence work together to create a unified visual system.

Mood, Restraint, and Cultural Memory

A quiet sense of melancholy runs through these photographs. While nothing dramatic happens, the lack of emotion draws attention to the absence and silence. As a result, viewers are invited to reflect rather than react.

Švarbová’s work is often linked to post-socialist visual culture. In this context, order, uniformity, and observation suggest shared memory rather than personal expression. However, these references remain subtle and never literal.

Mária Švarbová in Contemporary Photography

Through her precise compositions and consistent visual language, Švarbová has built a strong presence in contemporary photography. Over time, her work has shown how familiar public spaces can be transformed into reflective environments.

Ultimately, these photographs confirm her ability to combine design, architecture, and human form into images that are quiet, controlled, and deeply considered.

Source and Attribution

New Synchronised Photographs of Swimmers by Mária Švarbová, initially published by This Is Colossal.
https://www.thisiscolossal.com/2018/08/new-synchronized-photographs-maria-svarbova/