|
Artist's Statement
Larry Blackwood
an old pond
a frog jumps into
the water's sound
--Basho
Haiku is poetry of deceptively simple statements that bring out the profound in ordinary scenes or events. Producing an image that creates a visual “haiku moment” is what I strive for in my work. I think the most interesting photos are those composed of simple, everyday subjects that when photographed in a peculiar light, a specific arrangement, or from an unusual perspective produce images which present unexpected emotions or thoughts.
True haiku poetry contains specific defined elements. Of these, a reference to nature (in particular a season), the juxtaposition of subjects in a surprising relationship, and something old or aged are of most interest to me. The near or close-up draws my attention more often than the far view. In landscapes, I am drawn to interesting lighting and exploring the feelings relayed by fog and haze. I also have a strong interest in searching for geometric and expressionist abstract images both in the city and in nature. Direct reference to humans is uncommon in Haiku and—although for different reasons I imagine--also absent in my photos.
|