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Elements- Fire, Water, Air, and Earth, the fundamentals of all
existence, remind us of our place in creation. Even our modern
sensibilities can be moved by these primeval powers that shape
all that is. While our analytic and scientific thought tries to
harness their essence, to the soul they are still mysteries to
be revered and respected. We appreciate their powers to nurture
and shape life, but living beings are also familiar with their
bite and wrath. Aside from their literal nature, the Four Elements
enter the realm of metaphor in our consciousness. Animated in
their presence and in our thoughts, they inspire.
This collection of images was inspired by their nature. Rather
than seek completely literal interpretations of the Four Elements,
I have attempted to capture their metaphoric spirit. Humans
have always chosen these four essences to give personality to
the aspects and objects of life. They also illustrate the dual
nature of the universe since they reflect both opposites and
harmonies.
While I can never completely capture their presence, I have
sought to capture their spirit by seeking my own interpretation
of their symbolic nature. This exploration has both surprised
and confounded me. In experimenting with traditional black and
white photographs, color slides and the scanned object, I have
come to rethink the very nature of the photographic image. Also,
the elements have grown more mysterious and wondrous in my consciousness.
In the end, I accept that the Four Elements remain elusive and
ever-changing and I can only hope to capture the symbolic surface
of their essence.
After all, it is said that one cannot look too long at the sun,
…but, perhaps I can request its cooperation in my creations.
Lisa Hinkle
October, 2005
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