How about we start with a bunch of questions? Let’s make this read a thought provoking one, a bit more interactive in the invoking sense of the word shall we?
To begin with, it’s a well known idiom in the English language that, ‘a picture is worth a thousand words’, but can a picture really tell the complete story? Or rather, the truer version of it? When a subject grabs the attention of an artist, what runs through the artist’s mind? What triggers that moment of ‘zing’ which impels him or her to capture that perfect shot? What if the subject is a living, breathing, sentient being? How does the subject feel? Do inanimate subjects have feelings too?
Does a time-withered door want to be left a little ajar while being captured through an amateur photographer’s lens? What does the silhouette of a muse convey to a painter or a portrait photographer? Her bare back reveals a sense of loneliness or is she proud to be someone’s inspiration?
Then again, this is just one side of a coin. Mostly we perceive art based on our personal experiences and the present state of our mind. A person with a rich imagination might spin stories akin to a seamstress sewing a fine piece of clothing, whereas, a layman might not spare a second glance, judging the picture at face value.
To exemplify, let us have a look at the photographs. Time for some divination.
The woman in the picture, basking in the setting sun’s afterglow, could be perceived as an affluent soul, taking a leisurely dip in a pool overlooking the cobalt blue Aegean sea. Enjoying the comforts offered by the high-end life she leads, with not a single worry in the world.
Might we perceive a little differently? What if she is a bit sad, that the day is about to end? She has to get back to her prosaic yet demanding job, leaving behind an abundance of bougainvilleas in the unforgettable Santorini by the sea?
Or she might be just happily posing for her photographer hubby on a well-earned vacation. Penny for your thoughts?
Oftentimes the success of a story teller depends on the art of storytelling. Likewise, a skilled photographer can breathe life into a frame, turning a picture into a three dimensional entity.
Let’s look at the blue door below.
It has been through a lot you see, thunderstorms, the constant assault of salty breeze, and relentless sunshine over ages, but still it stands. Perhaps a shade lonely, but it doesn’t mind posing for a stray curious tourist with a camera in hand. It holds on to the walls by mere splinters, a red lock adorning it, framing a beguiling sea. Much like an old woman in her scant but well-worn jewels, in the last league of her adventurous life offering beautiful insights. But to an average onlooker, it’s just a blue door with peeling paint. Depends how you look at it.
To conclude, some stories we imagine, some are quite real, but every picture taken has something to tell. We just need to look beyond the apparent capture.
A huge thanks to the person behind the lens and the beautiful photographs, Sayan Paul (Instagram: @thebornspectator)
Silverleaf Corner 