First Blog

I believe what I find most intriguing about this photo in particular is the outlined texture. The shapes of shadows overlaying the leaves does create a certain ambience that outlines the focal point of the picture. The texture itself of the browning leaves is predominant over the shadows. They create a more unique imagery atop the usual leaf form. Personally, I found my feelings on the picture’s content to possess a certain melancholy. Like a still of the transience of life, the transition of prosperity to decay. I had shown this photo to a friend of mine, and his account of the composition was the leaves were rotten flesh. Another acquaintance considered the photo an x-ray photostatic of a patient, or a cellular proliferation. Of course, those responses came at an initial, cursory glance. When they looked further at the photograph, they discovered the true subject, subsequently becoming disappointed at the ordinary. Yet they did stand by on the sickly nature the leaves captured displayed. I do agree there exists a clear blight quality to the degradation. The discoloration spreading on the leaves very much resembles burn or pox on the skin. By the responses of others, I do believe they can perceive the melancholic quality in regards to the morbidity of nature in mid-season passage.

Joe D'Onofrio