When working on a scene, I approach it much more as a dynamic narrative than a static still life. I often begin with a concept that gradually clarifies itself during the creative process. In this particular case, I started with two dried pomegranates: one of normal size and another super small. Despite both being pomegranates, they exhibited completely different characters, much like how every human being has a unique personality, even within the same culture.
It was the distinct characters of the two pomegranates that initially captured my interest. The other significant elements in the scene are the old handmade nails. Together, the pomegranates and the nails create numerous juxtapositions, adding a layer of complexity to the conversation between them. This complexity enriches the photo, making it greater than just the sum of its parts.
As I arranged the scene, a story began to unfold. The distance between the two pomegranates and the placement of the old nails between them imbued the scene with a sense of tragedy. The direction in which the pomegranates face further enhances this narrative. Working with a black background, depth is eliminated, centering all attention on the visible objects. To compensate for this lack of depth, I introduced a literal second layer to the scene: two floors that provide space without adding traditional perspective.
These two levels are opposites in many ways. One is chaotic, while the other is organized. The lower level allows the background to become part of the storyline, adding another dimension to the composition. The floating nuts contribute to this sense of space, transforming the photo from a mere depiction of objects on a black background into a more expansive scene.
There are countless elements that come into play when I’m working on a piece. Some are formal aspects of painting and photography, such as composition, light, and shadow. Others are deeply personal and emotional, stemming from my relationship with the objects I choose for the photograph. Each object carries its own history and emotional weight, which influences the overall mood and message of the scene.
As I continue to work on the scene, the narrative evolves. The interplay between the objects creates a dialogue that I carefully shape and refine. The story becomes clearer as I adjust the positioning and orientation of each element, ensuring that every detail contributes to the overall composition. The black background serves to isolate these interactions, allowing the viewer to focus entirely on the relationships and tensions between the objects.
Ultimately, the scene becomes a visual exploration of character, space, and narrative. The dried pomegranates, with their distinct personalities, and the old nails, with their contrasting qualities, create a rich tapestry of meaning. The two floors and floating nuts add depth and complexity, inviting the viewer to engage with the scene on multiple levels. Through this process, the photograph transcends its components, becoming a cohesive and compelling story that resonates on both a formal and emotional level.
