Canadian photographer and researcher Kyler Zeleny has built an extraordinary collection of thousands of Polaroid photographs taken by strangers, transforming these forgotten memories into a unique artistic project. His Found Polaroids Project combines these discovered images with original short fictional stories inspired by the subjects and situations captured in each photograph.
For several years, photography enthusiasts and readers have been encouraged to imagine the narratives behind found photographs, but Zeleny takes this concept a step further by asking people to actually write down their creative interpretations. This interactive approach bridges the gap between visual art and storytelling, inviting participants to become co-creators in the artistic process.
Zeleny brings impressive credentials to his photographic work, holding a master's degree from Goldsmiths College at the University of London, where he specialized in Photography and Urban Cultures. He has authored two notable publications: "Out West" in 2014 and "Found Polaroids" in 2017, which showcases his extensive collection and methodology.
The photographer's work has gained international recognition, with exhibitions displayed across 12 countries worldwide. His contributions to the photography community extend beyond his personal projects, as he serves as a founding member of the Association of Urban Photographers (AUP), demonstrating his commitment to advancing the field professionally.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Zeleny maintains active roles in academic publishing as a guest editor for the Imaginations Journal for Cross-Cultural Image Studies and as a guest publisher with The Velvet Cell. Currently residing in Toronto, he is pursuing doctoral studies through the joint Communication and Culture program at Ryerson and York University, combining his practical photography experience with advanced academic research.
