chair #3

[zyzyly]

I had so much stuff to do today--write a paper for school, prepare a lecture for tomorrow, do the laundry, etc. At one point I thought that I would not be able to go out and take a picture, but I thought about why I was doing it, and decided I needed to get out and do it.

I've been thinking about this photograph since last week. I had taken a photograph out here before, and it's always been one of my favorites. I pictured the chair sitting on the dirt road, stretching out into the distance. I really don't have a clear idea of where I'm going with this project--I'm kind of taking it week by week. Each picture gives me some little bit of insight. This week's insight is that it's not about loneliness--it's something else. Maybe about creating a space that needs to be filled.

This place is about 45 minutes from my house, along the Cosumnes River. One of my secret places. I got there at about 4:45, which was just about perfect for the light. I spent an hour just appreciating the moment and taking pictures.

I sent the photo to my therapist. I wrote, "when the journey gets rough, have a seat for a moment and enjoy the stillness."

Comments

[(Anonymous)]

It's filled with possibilities.
Thanks for sharing this special moment in this special place. ~A

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

I know--each of these is filled with possibilities. I was just thinking about that.

[angelamermaid.livejournal.com]

I like how the darkness of the chair matches the tree on the left and the hay bales (?) on the right.

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

I think the dark things on the right are trees, but yes. I have photographed this tree and this spot before, and it is one of my favorite places.

[cobaltika.livejournal.com]

i am loving this project of yours.

[asakiyume.livejournal.com]

Ditto--the insights as well as the photos.

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

I look at these shots and wonder what is underneath all of it. Because I am sure there is something underneath.

[djaza.livejournal.com]

perfectly composed, and inviting as well

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

It is a lovely spot, and one of my favorite places to explore emptiness.

[shutterbug.livejournal.com]

Love!

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

yay!

[auntysocial.livejournal.com]

It's such an elegant and shiny chair. I often see chairs by the side of the road. When I scrolled down to see the picture, I was amazed to see a chair which looks like something someone brought to "Antiques Roadshow." I look forward to seeing more of this series.

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

There is an imprint on the bottom of the chair, and I googled it. Apparently the manufacturer has a good reputation for chairs. I guess I won't set this one aflame.

[asakiyume.livejournal.com]

I really liked what you wrote to your therapist. The road stretches on to the vanishing point, the journey will wait--have a seat and take stock.

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

I never really know what to say. Sometimes we just need a place to sit an contemplate for a moment.

[howeird]

Interesting choice of chair placement. I might have (keeping the camera where it is) had the chair facing the open road. Or by the side of the road (a parade may be coming any minute now!).

---

In Hebrew Mythology, the prophet Elijah did not die, he was assumed into heaven on a golden chariot. At Passover and a few other occasions a chair is left empty for him. His return is supposed to presage the coming of the Messiah.

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

I try all sorts of different shots, and it often surprises me which one ends up being the one. I love that you envision it differently--it speaks to the very personal nature of photography and creativity.

[pinkroo.livejournal.com]

I want to there, sitting in that chair.

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

You come down this way, and you can sit in that chair, and I will shoot it.

[pinkroo.livejournal.com]

it's a deal ;) Wouldn't that be fun!

[egg-shell.livejournal.com]

Your note saying, "when the journey gets rough, have a seat for a moment and enjoy the stillness." - so very excellent with the photo.

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

I have a hard time expressing empathy with words, but sometimes photography helps it along.

[elainetyger.livejournal.com]

An artist I recently met was asked in an interview what was the story behind him painting so many pictures of a particular cluster of buildings outside his studio window. He said that if there was a story, it lay in why did he paint the same thing over and over again. I can't explain it, but I get it.

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

I get it too. I have certain themes that I return to over and over, and I don't think I could explain them, but I know them intimately.

[fivecats.livejournal.com]

a fine sentiment, indeed. i'll try to remember it in the coming days & weeks.

thanks.

...

[zyzyly.livejournal.com]

we all need a place to rest our feet for a moment or two.