Beauty and Intrigue of the Overlooked: a photographic investigation of surfaces
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Date
2016-03-30
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Abstract
I will compare and contrast living and inert
surfaces at the macro level through a photographic
investigation. Complexity of structure, intensity of
color and presence of texture are among the merits
for which these surfaces will be studied. The
exploration of these planes at a magnified level of
detail will reveal the visual similarities and
differences between them. It is easier now, thanks to
advancements in the biological sciences, to factually
determine if something is living or nonliving. The
visual distinctions between these two categories of
existence, however, may not be as obvious,
especially with an intensified view of their surfaces.
For example, a macro photograph of rust, a nonliving
surface, looks eerily similar to one of lichen, a living
surface; the main difference between the two being
color. The line between these categorical labels
“living” and “nonliving” may not be as finite and
obvious as the general public would assume. This
research aims to show how quickly and blindly the
average individual moves through the world. As the
researcher, I urge individuals to become more aware
of their surroundings and to dismiss a popular
misconception that the nonliving is inherently ugly.
This research will manifest as sets of photographic
diptychs, their side-by-side presentation further
emphasizing the similarities and differences between
living and nonliving surfaces. By presenting these
diptychs as artwork, I am asserting that it is worth
your time to look at them; I am asserting that the
nonliving is worth your curiosity. By viewing these
diptychs, I hope that individuals will realize their
involuntary blindness and begin to question the
beauty of their surroundings, both living and inert.
Description
Art/Architecture (The Ohio State University Spring Undergraduate Research Expo)
Keywords
photography, magnification, biological, living, nonliving, surface