Assignment #1 Final Submission: Beauty and the Sublime

Introduction

The initial intention of this work is to convey the concept of beauty and the sublime in nature through images of trees taken in wilderness areas.  The images provide views of environments that are still largely unaffected by mankind and although zero impact by man is not realistically achievable these views provide a sense of wilderness.

Trees are an essential element in most environments and provide both food and shelter to various animals.  They also come in various forms that enable them to survive in different environments.  Ultimately however, trees will die from old age, through changing climatic conditions or through the activity of animals.  This element of death leads to the idea that trees in nature can also convey the idea of  the sublime.

The tree has been used as a symbol for many years as it is seen to be steadfast and strong.  It has roots in the earth that are hidden from view but provide both the stability and sustenance for the tree.  Above ground the tree exudes the concept of strength and growth.  These elements are depicted in this series as discussed above.

To some degree the interpretation of these images is influenced by the cultural background of the viewer.  Africa is a harsh environment and as a result the trees and surrounding landscape is not one of lush green as is typical of Western Europe.  At times a tree may appear dead but is in fact simply dormant and waiting for rain.

The key aspect of this work was to have the tree as the dominant element in each image and trees were selected to show different forms and types.  In addition different landscapes were a major driver in selecting the images.  This provides a diversity that will hopefully hold the viewers attention.

Although not photographed under precisely the same conditions this set of images can be viewed as a typology, or possibly a ‘series’ as described by Ruff.  The viewer is invited to consider just how beauty and the sublime are conveyed through nature.

Bibliography

William Gilpin, Wikipedia.  At:  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/William_Gilpin_(priest)  (Accessed on 21 November 2017)

Gilpin, W, ‘Observations on the River Wye’  (1770)  At:  (http://www.visionofbritain.org.uk/travellers/Gilpin_Wye/2  (Accessed on 21 November 2017)

Thomas Ruff In Conversation with Iwona Blazwick. (2017) [user-generated content online] Creat. Whitechapel Gallery (13 Nov 2017)At:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=196&v=uq9_XwYUr3Y  (Accessed on 16 April 2019)