Photographing Walls
Abstract art is not everybody’s cup of tea. I get that. In fact, I don’t always “get it” either. What I do know is that it is not a totally random process. Not that I was photographing abstract art created by someone. But these photographs are, in a word, abstract. And in that sense, they fall into the realm of abstract art (if one can call these types of photographs art (to each their own)). I do . . . or at least try to make them so.
More than calling it art, I look at them as visual exercises. Sure, occasionally an image rises above the others and is compelling for one reason or another. But for the most part, they are exercises. Working with found objects to create what one hopes will be an interesting image.
Sometimes I’m trying to create a balanced composition between the elements within the frame, other times to create visual tension. Sometimes it’s a play on colors, complementary or contrasting. What matters is that the eye sees something, something that survives the framing of the subject and, occasionally, survives being made into an image.
But unlike a beautiful sunset or a close-up of a flower, one rarely looks at such images and says, “That’s beautiful.” Sure, it can happen, but that’s rare. Instead, the image either strikes an emotional chord, causes the mind to think, the eye to explore the image . . . or it doesn’t. Failure is the norm if I’m honest.
Often, I’m doing it just to exercise the eye. To work with random shapes and colors to make the best composition possible. Because one has to practice to keep the eye and the mind sharp and in shape for when there really is excellent work to be discovered and made. It’s all part of the work.
And, every once in a while, you actually make an image that strikes a chord and truly pleases you.
Here’s another one of Ann’s pictures of me. Making the above image.
And yes, I couldn’t find anything better to photograph at the Kazemattan - I’d done it before. Perhaps I should name the series, Military Fortress as Abstract Art?