This post is the first in a series of window images, emphasizing their unique role as an interface between a building’s interior and exterior. Today we highlight the Svörtuloft Lighthouse on Snaefellsnes, known for its striking orange color and square shape, situated on a hazardous promontory.
This will be the first in a series of window images that I have captured over the years. Windows are always an interesting subject, as they provide the interface for any building between the interior and exterior. They provide a function of at the same time keeping the elements out and letting part of the elements in, a juxtaposition of functionality.
Let’s kick things off with something rather colorful…
Svörtuloft
The Svörtuloft Lighthouse stands out in the landscape on the Snaefellsnes Peninsula’s landscape, where it sits on a westernmost promontory. Its square shape and orange color contrasts with the black rock upon which it is situated. Built around 1913 its name translates loosely to Black Sky (literal: black air), and it sits in an area that was known for its many shipwrecks, as both the sea and cliffs are treacherous and difficult to navigate.
This spectacular building is well worth a visit on a nice day; during winter months it might be very difficult to get to (I tried and failed in my attempt).
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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Great colours Frank
You could link to Monday Window as well
https://mondaywindow.wordpress.com/
Thank you much, Brian!