In Rome

Comment

Comment by Resident Curator on December 4, 2012 at 8:31am

Curator’s Comment:  

 

Assuming this photograph of Rome has been manipulated digitally, the luminous color doesn’t stray too far from reality, and so it successfully suspends my disbelief.  The strong bilateral symmetry projects an image of stoic strength and stability, but the cool hues are almost crystalline as they reflect from the architectural surfaces, street and glass windows. The street practically glows in the cool light. While the right half of the picture is slightly heavier visually, the arrow sign in the bottom left corner points attention back into the center.  Whether or not this was intentional/ manipulated, it is an effective formal device.  I also appreciate the people in the picture stay in the distance, breathing life into the scene, but keeping directed emphasis on the domed capitol building. The more surreal piece entitled A Stream in Muhlhausen also captures my interest. Much more saturated and exaggerated in hue and tonality, the photograph still retains a sense of seclusion and mystery.  The natural splendor, while specific to this location, translates to a more universal or collective fantastical woodland enclave. This ambiguity of place removes any recognition that I’ve been there, but that the invitation remains open.