In this weeks activity we have selected four images without captions that resonate with us. We are to analyse the images with the following questions in mind:
- What is going on in this picture?
- What do you see that makes you say that?
- Look again at the image: What more can you see?
- Give each image a title that you feel fits the content.
Image 1:
Reflection: Two women in a fairly dense forest have converged upon a fallen tree that has over time, become covered in moss and fungus. They seem fascinated by what they have discovered with the fallen tree and the baskets that they have rested on top of and to the side of the trunk suggests that maybe they are in the forest together to explore and forage. The clothing worn by the woman and the overall colour of the surrounding foliage would be conducive with Autumn. Autumn is a popular time for foragers to take to the forests to collect wild and edible fungi and plants.
Reflection: A small plant with delicate white flowers has sprung forth from the earth in front of a gravestone. A man leans over to inspect the flowers with a joyful look on his face. His notepad and pencil, along with his back pack suggest that he is studying the plant. This is a compelling image because at first glance, it would appear that the man is lying on the grave of a lost loved one, grieving and alone. The monochrome tone to the image certainly helps to deliver this initial impression. It is only upon much closer inspection that we realize the man is in fact happy to be where he is and is not lying on the ground in paroxysms of grief and despair.
Reflection: In this image I see a neighborhood decimated by war. The buildings barely stand, piles of rubble from the attack gather around the entrances. I feel this has been a war-torn area for quite some time. The local children are enjoying a swim in a crater that has filled with water. They appear to be smiling and having fun. This leads me to think that they are no strangers the after effects of war and have learned to find joy and happiness wherever they can. They swim and play as other young boys do because this is their normal.
Reflection: I believe that this image was captured during a riot. I see the riot police in the back ground, in uniform and creating a blockade across the street. They are standing somewhat casually, suggesting that they have not yet engaged with any opposition but are prepared for that possibility. One, lone woman of colour approaches the two riot police who are stationed in front of the other officers. Her expression is stoic and strong. Her body language, the positioning of her hands, sends the message that she comes to deliver a message, perhaps unspoken. She shows great dignity and poise. The police officers before her are taken aback. It appears that her action has caught them off-guard. Perhaps they have broken formation to intercept her approach. They are displaying defensive body language, as if they are unsure of her motives and are prepared to defend themselves if the need arises. Across the street, a small crowd watches the events unfold. The number of riot police suggest a larger crowd of protesters approach. It is possible this woman approaches with the intention of diffusing what could quickly develop into a violent confrontation.
Amber Lyons Photography 