Work in a public service oriented environment long enough and inevitably you will come across attitude in all its many splendored forms. Bearing that in mind I decided to share this water abstract photograph I took last fall while hiking the Medway Valley Heritage Trail.
This, taken with your words,suggests to me muddle, confusion and frustration perhaps. The formal modern working environment can be full of danger - competition, disappointment, turmoil, etc. I believe this is a cause of much stress in society and yet at the same time we endure it because we all have an inner need to belong to something bigger than ourselves. For my part I turned my back on a successful career in the public sector 10 years ago when I lost all confidence in the senior management who had stone eyes and plastic fish in their mouths. I figured it was time I choose a life that I wanted rather the one I believed I ought to have.
ReplyDeleteInteresting observation, Philip. It wasn't my intent on a conscious level when I included those words with the photograph, although who knows on a subconscious level. I was trying to provide a contextual comparison between the photograph and what someone employed in the public service sector might experience from patrons.
ReplyDeleteThat said, I'm in full agreement with you on the nature of the formal modern working environment and the needless stresses it and society can place on an individual. I would love some day to be able to do as you have done and turn my back on the formal working environment. What holds me back at this time is the uncertainty of leaving behind the known for the unknown. Also, I'm blessed to be working in an environment where my superiors and coworkers actively encourage me to express my creativity not only in my duties in the workplace but, also artistically outside of the workplace.
I feel a bit dumb now for putting 2 and 2 together and coming up with 22. I thought you were alluding to the problems many people have at work these days by being treated solely as functionaries. It sounds you are lucky to have a supportive management and by being valued for what you have to offer. I think many people would be envious of this.
ReplyDeleteThere's no reason too feel that way, Philip. The wonderful thing about art that I love so much is the depth of meaning. 2 and 2 together not only comes up with 4 it also comes up 22. Your observation allowed me to view this photograph from a different and equally valid perspective.
ReplyDeleteI think I just lucked out with regards to my work environment. One could also say that many would be envious of those such as yourself who are able to fully live the life they choose and not be tied down to a regulated work environment where time rules supreme.
Thanks - I always find your comments interesting and perceptive. By the way, I am currently working on a 'paint in ice' project following your suggestion. Various elements are in the freezer waiting assembly! Don't know if it will work but it is fun trying. Thanks for the suggestion - I can't wait to see the result!
ReplyDeleteI can't wait to see the results of your experimentation. It will likely be at least a week before I'll have any results. I'm still trying to sort out a major technical difficulty ... the ice is not turning out crystal clear but opaque. Hopefully boiling the water first or using distilled water will help take care of this problem.
ReplyDeleteIn the meantime I may try to do a variation of your ice photograph by placing a photograph underneath a glass container filled with water, pouring paints of varied consistency into the water, and then taking a series of photographs.
I am having the same problems but I think I will get there! I have got very cold hands now!
ReplyDeleteI also very much look forward to seeing your results!