On this Valentine’s Day, I’d figure to start off with something abstract, give you a chance to think, but not over-analyze, and give me your best guess. This is not an image that is front and center in my collection, so, here it goes…
I captured this tableau during the same walk that provided Searching for Tranquility and several other images, so you can say that it was a good day for my abstract portfolio.
When I came upon the source material for this shot, I had a sense that something was trying to communicate with me at a deeper level about an occurrence in a distant past. It was not until I saw the image on a larger screen that the title ‘Destruction of the Maiden’ came to me. There was something inherently violent within the image, which gave me a sense of struggle or a possible ancient sacrifice; almost, as if a mythical creature was about to collect its annual tribute.
Technical Data
This image was captured with a Canon 5D MkII using a 24-105mm f/4 L IS lens, with an F-stop of f/22, 100 ISO at 1/5 second. I started the lens focal length at 105mm and zoomed it back in during the shot.
Your Question
Now, that you have seen the image, and the technical specifics, what was the source material for this shot? I’m looking forward to your ideas on this.
A Fresh Perspective
Photography is more than just a vehicle for capturing the world around me; it provides me with a palette and a set of brushes, with which I paint not only what I see, but also look to express the emotions that are evoked by the scene in front of me in that moment.
Growing up in the Netherlands exposed me to a wide cross-section of visual arts that laid the foundation of my photographic view of all that surrounds me. Early influences were the Dutch Masters of the 17th century, to whom I was introduced by my grandfather during museum explorations; favorites among them are the scenes of quotidian life depicted by Jan Steen and Frans Hals and the vivid landscapes of Jacob van Ruisdael.
My classical high school education was supplemented by the Boijmans Van Beuningen museum, where I spent many a lunch hour exploring its great collection. Here I was introduced to surrealism with a particular love for the approach taken by Salvador Dali; Dali also rekindled my appreciation for the work of Hieronymus Bosch, who often showed the folly of us mortals.
Universal Connections
My approach to any photographic subject is to look for understanding first; in this I look to establish either a connection between the viewer and the subject or capture the connection of the subject with its surroundings. The captured image then aims to portray this connection from a perspective that is part of my personal interpretation.
This interpretation is often a form of externalized introspection, which may alternately display the connection of isolated beings and items with their environment or highlight the whimsy of the profound world, in which we find ourselves. The universe is full of connections, many of which are waiting to be discovered; part of my journey as a photographer is to document these connections.
Any assignment, be it an event, a product shoot or a portrait session is always approached through communication with the client; this is where the first connection is established. Ideas are exchanged and a collaborative plan of action forms, ultimately resulting in a set of images that aim to exceed the expectations of each client.
And, lest we forget, it is important to have fun while practicing the serious business of photography!
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13 thoughts on “Destruction of the Maiden”
Quite frankly I have no idea at the moment. I might see things rather differently after I’ve cooked Sunday Dinner.
The suspense may ruin the day and we know where the blame lies:)
Hmmm…me? LOL
My first thought was that it was a naked tree stump, with the rings of the tree showing. As for the mystical side, before reading your piece, I saw a maiden launching into the heavens with great power, a re-birth perhaps, a transformation, or a release from bondage. So it interested me to read your interpretation and understand the title of the piece. I look forward to learning about the source material. Thanks for an intriguing piece!
Quite frankly I have no idea at the moment. I might see things rather differently after I’ve cooked Sunday Dinner.
Great idea! Have a wonderful Sunday and dinner!
A lobster. And not a happy one. 😉 But whatever it is, I like it.
Thank you! Interesting guess, as well…
I could see its grabby pincers….
Sandstone cave wall eroded by nature.
Don’t want to think about it on Velentine’s Day:)
Interesting guess. Have a wonderful Valentine’s Day!
The suspense may ruin the day and we know where the blame lies:)
Hmmm…me? LOL
My first thought was that it was a naked tree stump, with the rings of the tree showing. As for the mystical side, before reading your piece, I saw a maiden launching into the heavens with great power, a re-birth perhaps, a transformation, or a release from bondage. So it interested me to read your interpretation and understand the title of the piece. I look forward to learning about the source material. Thanks for an intriguing piece!
I would bet on sand and sea shells. 🙂
Not a bad guess!