“The eye is always caught by light, but shadows have more to say.”
Gregory Maguire
I think artists are often the folk who go checking out the shadows - the way they fall, or move, or play across a surface. For sure we are also attracted to the light and the reflections and the rainbows, but often in the shadows different stories are told.
I love the shapes shadows make - how they change in size as the sun moves across the sky; the way they add something to the surface upon which they land; how they almost paint another picture for us.
They offer a solid shape, often somewhat distorted, that reflects the truth of the original object; but often with a twist; or an angle that makes the deciphering a bit of a challenge.
And then there is the shadow. The place that is almost in the darkness or the shade, where other stories are most definitely told and where interesting possibilities emerge that would not otherwise occur in full exposure to light.
I think shadows make you work harder to understand what they are saying - the original object is often easy to interpret. Shadow suggest and hint; they obscure or cover up; they just make life that bit more interesting!
This image was taken at Miyajima in Japan - it's the shadows made by gohei (Japanese temple paper prayers) playing across the floorboards...
Gregory Maguire
I think artists are often the folk who go checking out the shadows - the way they fall, or move, or play across a surface. For sure we are also attracted to the light and the reflections and the rainbows, but often in the shadows different stories are told.
I love the shapes shadows make - how they change in size as the sun moves across the sky; the way they add something to the surface upon which they land; how they almost paint another picture for us.
They offer a solid shape, often somewhat distorted, that reflects the truth of the original object; but often with a twist; or an angle that makes the deciphering a bit of a challenge.
And then there is the shadow. The place that is almost in the darkness or the shade, where other stories are most definitely told and where interesting possibilities emerge that would not otherwise occur in full exposure to light.
I think shadows make you work harder to understand what they are saying - the original object is often easy to interpret. Shadow suggest and hint; they obscure or cover up; they just make life that bit more interesting!
This image was taken at Miyajima in Japan - it's the shadows made by gohei (Japanese temple paper prayers) playing across the floorboards...
I totally agree with your thoughts on shadows. I'm always looking for them and photographing them. And, of course, revel in seeing others doing the same. Stunning image you took in Miyajima.
ReplyDeleteThe kindredness of spirits who see and love shadow-play J! Artists have a certain way of seeing I think, and shadows add such a lovely element to the world...
DeleteFiona, this is beautiful and intriguing. I did a post on shadows on my blog with more photos in my camera to upload tomorrow. Shadows are captivating and inspire me to reach for the Nikon:)
ReplyDeletexx Sue
Thanks Sue - it's fun to know so many others see shadows and their play and enjoy them so much - your flowers and vases are beautiful!
DeleteI cannot tell you how many photos I have of shadows! When the light comes to the front of the house the etched glass panels in my Victorian front door throw wonderful patterns over the walls and don't even get me started about plant shadows on walls.....
ReplyDeleteI just had a lovely time checking out your front door shadows Leslie- they are delicate and shimmery and flighty somehow. There is much joy to be had in beholding shadows I think.
Deletefunny how i was thinking and seeing this through the week. lots of light/shadow play here as autumn light brings huge changes. good to be reminded that it's often in shadows stories are told. yes.
ReplyDeleteHi V - each season's light and shadows are different aren't they? I raced outside yesterday afternoon as the sun set to see the most wonderful light playing on the garden and the trees. Shadows tell a different story tho I think.
DeleteThe quote can relate to personalities as well. The quieter people, who require a closer examination(? not quite the right word) are often the most interesting.
ReplyDeleteInteresting thought to ponder Jo- I always say, watch out for the quiet ones; they'll surprise you!
DeleteI have always been attracted to shadow.. and the edge of shadow next to the edge of light. Years ago I used to paint representational scenes of white houses and such and the shadows fascinated me. Your words brought back all those memories...and I love your little book (in previous post).. light and airy.
ReplyDeleteHi Donna - the ponts of intersection between light and shadow are fascinating as well aren't they? I love the stories shadows tell in reference to their original object but also independently. Glad you enjoyed the wee book as well - go well.
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