Project Proposal

Abstract Images of Wood And Nature

I have chosen to shoot abstract images of wood and nature, because I believe wood contains a wide range of complex patterns and designs, it also contains elements such as natural effects like erosion. Wood also comes in all shapes, sizes and colours. This will allow me to explore many ideas and techniques using this subject and genre.

Nature has a wide variety of subjects ranging from flowers to food, many natural objects contain earthy colours, leading lines and patterns, this will help me create sophisticated images which will contain a variety of techniques. My theme contains items which are easily accessible, this will help collect objects to capture.

Abstract Photography is not limited to a specific subject area, e.g. Portraiture is specifically related to people, abstract art can work with every subject including people and then sub branch into other areas such as skin and hair, it will enable me to explore a wide range of themes.

After researching and viewing images created by Bridget Riley, I realised abstract art can be created by a shape or concept and then multiplied to create sophisticated images. She also creates black and white images of shapes and patters to create optical effects and strong contrasts.

Ryan Bush is also inspired me explore abstract art because he chooses to shoot everyday objects such as cans, bottles and cutlery to create his images, the aspect which makes his images attention grabbing is that he creates art from characterless objects. His images inform viewers that art can be made from everything and anything it is not limited to certain objects or groups of people.

At the start of this project I shot some abstract images of household items, the images were very detailed, you cant make out what the subject is, I believe this retains the viewers attention it makes them think on what the subject could be. Furthermore I was surprised by the lines within the images they contain flowing and curvaceous patterns.

I intend to complete photo shoots in digital, black and white and colour film. There are many types of wood which contain different colours, shapes and designs I may want to compare natural wood to indoor types. I could also compare soft colour tones to striking vibrant tones to create a contrast For example mahogany contains vibrant red colours compared to beach wood which is very light. Along side shooting images of wood, I will also capture images of nature including leaves, food and flowers. Nature contains variety of objects and colours, this will help me create contrasting colours tones and pattern effects. Darkroom effects such as sandwiching negatives, burning negatives and solarization will be interesting areas to explore.