However, subtle compositional complexities might be discovered here. At first glance this image conveys a scene of repetitious rectangular elements, sharp angles and abruptly plunging vectors. Within this schema exists a secondary pattern, that of spherical objects echoing one another: the round drain is mimicked by the trio of overflow openings . . . which share a geometrical symmetry with the threesome of chrome fixtures . . . for which an easily overlooked kinship exists in the trey-spotted cup. The scene represents a congregation of diametrically opposed essential forms: squares and circles.
Two other aspects of this setting drew me in as worthy of a photographic subject. Initially, the sink in and of itself is superficially perceived as a weighty, static object affixed to the wall. Yet, the effects of the shadows combined with the slice of flooring below and the action of the dynamic lines of the tiles provide a surprising sense that the porcelain is somehow floating in space, hovering, maybe even rising to meet us.
Secondly, this humble subject is perceived as unremarkable due to our primary assumption of its use: washing hands and faces, brushing teeth . . . Consider how differently might this very same item be viewed were it instead titled Baptistry? Simply by altering the label associated with the scene an expected aura of holiness, sacredness, spirituality would be present. Thus, the opportunity and willingness to see broader possibilities can significantly change our perception of the object at hand, reminding us of the constrictions imposed by unchallenged familiarities and expectations.
Sink, #3254
(c)2009 James W. Murray, all rights reserved.
(click image for larger version)
Details: May 17, 2009; Canon 20D; f/11 @ 1/3 sec; - 2/3 EV; ISO 200; 20mm.
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It is said that a picture's worth a thousand words. While the artist/author has left 733 available, his somewhat detailed descripts have incarcerated my mind to such a degree that I felt compelled to post, in an effort to get on with my day. I am left with the thought that the inn keeper's assitant was perhaps able to share their own artistic expression, in an attempt to enhance a guests experience, by providing a superbly matched cup.
ReplyDeleteI'm extremely fond of any and all images of plumbing fixtures, especially the older ones. Familiar and mundane, but also ancient, anachronistic, and futuristic. The solid all-in-one styling with built-in soap dish, the rusting metal fixtures, and the incongruous impression of floating all make me think of a flying saucer.
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