Continuing with my previous post on this new project exploring the shapes, textures, and colors of some fallen leaves in my yard, this post includes a few more “characters” to be found. Working with these reminded me of my time spent in 2017 during the last solar eclipse, being in the middle of some vast dunes on Lake Michigan and seeing Dune Dragons. Then my mind wanders wondering if the two are related in some way? Obviously both are explorations of what else things can be, but what if there is a related narrative?
Elaborate Egyptian robes and gowns
While developing these photographs, I faced a decision whether I wanted them portrayed in color or black & white. For the first few, I did both, and for awhile, I had a hard time choosing between the two. Black and white certainly helps separate them further from reality, creating a more abstract representations of shapes and surfaces. But some of them worked much better in black and white than others.
In color, the time of year becomes more obvious. The cellular structure of the leaves has a reptilian skin-like appearance, but the colors also bring a golden elegance to them. It is actually quite amazing to see the detail in nature’s design zoomed in to 100%. The slight flowing waves on the surfaces reminded me of elaborate, embroidered with gold robes that you might see from a costume designer working on a Game of Thrones episode, or an epic movie involving Egyptian history. Or, if they are indeed related to Dune Dragons, maybe some ancient Chinese influence? So color brought interesting dimensions that I liked that the monochrome versions simply didn’t do.
All sorts of characters
It is actually pretty interesting how a single tree can spawn so many different characters in its leaves. I am sure there are scientific, biological explanations of why one curls here versus there. Answers to questions that a bit less interesting than what exactly are all these creatures planning?!
I am highly suspicious.
To be continued…
I’m going with Lynn’s logic. I’m impressed with your images and your creativity with this project. I will be interested in the next series, whether in black and white or color. The color images seem more appealing but sure willing to see what the black and white offers my eyes. I also see that reptilian look in them.
Thanks Monte. I’ve been working on some more and have another post in draft I am working on.
They’re just planning more moves for you, Mark! No worries!
The colors are so rich, it’s hard to imagine these any other way.
Beautiful, again!
I do like the richness of the colors also!
To me the first one looks like a snail and the second a praying mantis.
stay away from those mushrooms Doc. 🙂
🙂
Very cool! Interesting shapes.
Sounds like you have some story planned… 🙂 I’m looking forward to more.
Uh oh, now I have to think of a story?
Very cool and creative project, Mark.