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ARDN632_Madison_Wolfgramm_Image Doing_Image 2

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Contextual Document

“To dream of something great instead of just seeing what already exists.” – Robert Jahns

Assignment 2 focused on developing digital images in the post-truth era. I did this through distortion, juxtaposition, and manipulation of digital art. The goal was to challenge traditional notions of truth and reality in the digital age by exploring how images can be altered and interpreted in various ways. 

This semester, I went on a dance tour, visiting eight countries and twelve cities, showcasing my passion for dance and the importance of travel. I captured moments of man-made architecture, landmarks, and people, observing the transformation of natural and man-made structures over time. Photographs of ancient buildings led up to the ongoing theme of the colour orange through the urban streets a genre of photography that records everyday life in a public place (A Definition of Street Photography, n.d.) A combination of yellow and red, symbolising intensity, creativity, euphoria, and enthusiasm. This was commonly used in their environments and signifies structures with architectural or historical features that could be given landmark status. Through my manipulated images, I aimed to convey a message of urban and modern architecture, drawing parallels between the enduring nature of historical landmarks. My goal was to highlight the beauty and significance of these structures, showcasing how they have stood the test of time within rapidly changing landscapes. By juxtaposing the old with the new, I hoped to inspire viewers to appreciate and preserve these architectural treasures for future generations. 

The connection between diverse cultures and the universal language of dance was a big highlight for me through the power of art to bridge gaps and foster understanding.  This is where I branched off into further research and found inspiration from artist models and experimented with the different techniques and software to create visually engaging artwork. One of my Artist models is Robert Jahns he provides a creative and surreal touch, while Shaylin Wallace helps with color and texture play. Techniques include blending reality with imagination, photo manipulation, vibrant colour palettes, emotional storytelling, scale and perspective, and minimalism with a dreamlike twist. I often work with black and white, but Shaylin encourages using raw photographs with vibrant colours and rich textures to evoke mood and depth. By combining their unique strengths and perspectives, they can push the boundaries of digital art and create captivating pieces that resonate with viewers on a deep level. Their collaborative approach allows them to evolve and grow as artists continuously, inspiring me to explore new ideas and techniques in their creative process. As technology advances and society embraces the digital revolution, digital art will significantly influence our cultural landscape (Art One Academy, 2024)

Experimenting with these techniques created visually stunning and thought-provoking pieces that stand out in a digital landscape. Experimenting with these techniques can pushed the boundaries of traditional photography and inspire new levels of creativity. This project was challenging for me, but I’m pleased with the results, which reworked my photographs into a modern view of man-made structures. The use of unconventional angles and lighting brought a fresh perspective to familiar subjects, resulting in a series of captivating images that capture viewers. By embracing experimentation and pushing the limits of their craft, I was able to transform ordinary scenes into extraordinary works of art. 

A definition of street photography. (n.d.).

Art One Academy. (2024, February 16). Cultivating Creativity: Benefits of Digital art. 

Robert Jahns. (2016). LUMAS; Lumas. 

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#LASTRIDE | end of an era. 3

The image captures friends and I exploring European suburbs, showcasing the rich textures and colors of architecture, contrasting man-made and natural elements, and combining the first two series into one final image. The composition highlights the harmony between urban development and natural landscapes, creating a visually striking and thought-provoking scene. The diverse elements in the photo invite viewers to reflect on the intersection of human creativity and the environment. Overall, the photo conveys a sense of balance and coexistence between the man-made structures and the surrounding nature. It prompts viewers to consider the impact of human intervention on the natural world and how we can strive for a harmonious relationship with our environment. 

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#LASTRIDE | end of an era. 2

Sharing my experiences with my friends of visiting and viewing unimaginable places during our days off as a tourist, showcasing how I managed to distort urban settings through the inclusion of man-made and modern elements. I hope to inspire others to step outside their comfort zones and explore the world around them, finding beauty in unexpected places and embracing the juxtaposition of nature and technology. By blending these elements together, we can create unique and memorable experiences that challenge our perceptions of the world. 

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#LASTRIDE | end of an era. 1

Dancers dream of traveling the world to showcase their talents, and my last tour in Europe was a surreal experience. I dreamed of waking up to beautiful views, which I have achieved and showcased in this piece through a distortion of landmarks across Europe through juxtaposition. The vibrant energy of each city we performed in fueled my passion for dance even more, making every show a truly unforgettable experience. The memories created during this tour will forever hold a special place in my heart, motivating me to continue pursuing my dreams of dancing on stages around the globe. 

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FINAL SERIES | #LASTRIDE | end of an era.

I have happily finalized my ideas for my three compositions through multiple iterations and will proceed with editing them to their chosen filter, supported by feedback. I am confident that this process will result in polished and refined pieces that effectively convey my intended message. I look forward to sharing them with others and receiving their thoughts on the final product. The editing process will ensure that my compositions are cohesive and impactful, enhancing the overall quality of my work. I am excited to see how others will interpret and connect with my creations once they are complete. 

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EDITING UPDATE: After extensive experimentation with various editing techniques, I have chosen a natural cinematic filter to enhance the natural features of buildings and juxtaposition in my manipulated images. This filter adds depth and dimension to the architecture, creating a visually stunning final product that captures the essence of the urban landscape. The subtle color enhancements and texture adjustments further emphasize the unique characteristics of each structure. The final result is a series of photographs that evoke a sense of nostalgia and appreciation for the beauty found in everyday surroundings. The cinematic filter elevates the visual impact of the images, drawing viewers in to explore the intricate details of each building. 

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WIP: I did not further develop this concept where I had this idea of various places visited in the windows, with a plane passing or a journey on the left hand side, which could have been a starter for my project. However, I realized that focusing on a single cohesive theme would make for a stronger and more impactful project. This decision ultimately led me to explore other creative avenues and develop a more refined concept. 

WIP: I was working on this frame for awhile, but found the subject matter too busy and only wanted it to be displayed alone. I decided not to further trial this frame, but if I had more time, I could have shown the contrast between the journey and site seeing. The intricate details of the frame were overshadowing the simplicity of the subject, so I chose to focus on highlighting the subject's beauty on its own. By exploring the contrast between the journey and site seeing, I could have added depth and complexity to the overall composition. 

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Artist Model | Paul Brouns

Paul Brouns is a renowned Dutch photographer known for his vibrant, geometric architectural images of urban facades, capturing the essence of modern architecture in an artistic manner. His compositions often feature repeating elements like windows and balconies, transforming buildings into abstract art. Brouns' unique perspective and attention to detail have earned him international recognition, with his work being exhibited in galleries around the world. His photographs not only showcase the beauty of architectural design, but also invite viewers to see buildings in a new light, appreciating their forms and structures in a fresh way. 

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WIP #3 | Iteration 1-3

Variation 1-3 Annotated: The final composition's concept was altered due to a better understanding of the storyline journey and a desire to experiment with a different perspective from a hotel room. The change in perspective allowed for a deeper exploration of the characters' emotions and motivations, resulting in a more dynamic and engaging narrative. Additionally, the hotel room setting provided a unique backdrop that added layers of complexity to the story's atmosphere. 

Variation #1 Edited

Too much color going on

turn contrast + brightness down

Variation #2 Edited

Very subtle

Variation #3 Edited

Too blue

although liking the idea of cinematic editing

Variation #4 Edited

Too bright

Can see the flaws of the editing

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WIP #2 | Iteration 1-3

Variation 1-3 Annotated: After taking notes on my draft composition I experimeted and made three variations that reveal different ideas. I focused on scale and perspective, focusing on the connection between buildings and people. Mirror imagery was used in the first WIP iteration, resulting in a quirky dreamlike feel and a successful composition. The second variation emphasized the contrast between light and shadow, creating a dynamic and visually striking composition. In the third iteration, I played with different angles to showcase the intricate details of the architecture, adding depth and complexity to the overall piece. Overall, each variation brought a unique element to the composition, allowing me to explore different aspects of the subject matter. Through these experiments, I was able to push my creative boundaries and develop a stronger understanding of how to effectively convey my ideas through visual storytelling. 

WIP #2 | Edited Iteration | 1-3

Variation #1 | Edited:

Blends with the brick walls

Washes out some of the buildings and people

Variation #2 | Edited:

Works well with the middle image

Brightness control - Balance it out

Variation #3 | Edited:

Indie Effect of imagery

Natural Colouring

Works well

Variation #4 | Edited:

Too dark

I like the cinematic feel but not for this piece

Try the filter lighter (not too harsh)

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Options | Extra Elements : I wanted to enhance the water by adding extra elements, but the boat appeared out of place against the new background, which I felt was more visually appealing without the boat cut out. The boat seemed to disrupt the serene atmosphere I was trying to create with the added elements, so I decided to leave it out of the final composition. The new background now felt more cohesive and captivating without the boat. 

The right-hand side background has been removed to enhance the depth of the image and explore additional elements. This editing technique creates a more dynamic and visually interesting composition, drawing the viewer's eye towards the main subject. It also allows for a greater focus on the subject itself, without distractions from the background. 

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WIP | Iteration 1-3

Variation 1 - 3 Annotated: The draft has been improved and moved onto three variations, with a focus on background textures and building connections. Experiments have been made to mirror buildings and add more people to the image. Although slight adjustments will be made before final decision, the concept will be moving into the final submission. The overall composition has become more dynamic and visually engaging, capturing the essence of the original concept. The added details have brought depth and realism to the scene, enhancing its overall impact.

Robert Jahns digitally created blend of natural landscapes inspired the creation of this concept, aiming to create a similar sense of awe and wonder in an urban setting. The final result will showcase a unique blend of nature and architecture, inviting viewers to explore the intricate details within the image. 

WIP | Adobe Lightroom Edits | 1-3

Edited #1 | Variation 1-3

Too orangey

Edited #2 | Variation 1-3

Average Filter (option)

Edited Variation #3 | 1-3

Brightness

High Contrast on faces + other areas

Edited Variation #4 1-3

Cinematic Effect - Subtle

Urban Setting

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Artist Model | Shaylin Wallace

Shaylin Wallace is a renowned digital artist and photographer known for her unique style that blends reality with surreal elements. She uses Adobe Photoshop to create vivid, imaginative images, often incorporating scale, color, and surreal compositions. Wallace's work often features natural elements juxtaposed with human figures and urban settings, evoking emotion and thought. Her art features layered textures, abstract elements, and rich colors, making it visually striking and conceptually intriguing. She combines conceptual art with surrealism, incorporating a modern twist through digital manipulation. Wallace's work is widely shared on social media platforms like Instagram, showcasing her evolving style and creative approach.

SURREAL SCENERY SERIES | THREE-PART SERIES

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Further Research | Theme

I plan to research my manipulated image series and develop a strong theme from my existing collection. I captured images of ancient buildings and landmarks during a dance tour in Europe, leading me to question the ongoing theme of the color orange. Orange, a combination of yellow and red, symbolizes intensity, creativity, euphoria, and enthusiasm. It is commonly used in creative environments and signifies structures with architectural or historical features that could be given landmark status. Orange has also been associated with political movements and campaigns, such as the UN campaign to end violence against women. I've been inspired by the juxtaposition of the vibrant color against the ancient backdrop, sparking a deeper exploration into the significance of orange in various contexts. Through my photographs, I aim to convey a message of resilience and empowerment, drawing parallels between the enduring nature of historical landmarks and the strength of social movements advocating for change. The use of orange in these settings serves as a visual representation of hope and progress, symbolizing the potential for positive transformation. By capturing these moments through photography, I hope to inspire others to reflect on the power of color in shaping our perceptions and narratives. 

KEY WORDS: Dance, Europe, Friends, Family, Landmark, Environment, Culture, Tour, Travel, Trip, Buildings, Architecture

Source: Goggle Images

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WIP | Assignment Overview

Reflecting on my current material and referring to the assignment brief. I believe we are on the right track, but need to focus on identifying my concept ideas and overall story theme. With limited time, I plan to further research and refine my current compositions. By exploring different perspectives and seeking inspiration from various sources, I aim to solidify my concept and enhance the coherence of my narrative. This will ensure that my final submission meets the criteria outlined in the assignment brief. Due to missed opportunities for face-to-face interaction and failure in my first assignment.

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Artist Model | Charlie Davoli

Charlie Davoli, an Italian photographer and digital artist, creates surreal and imaginative compositions by blending real-life photography with fantastical elements. He uses apps like Photoshop and Instagram to manipulate landscapes, architecture, and everyday objects, blending them into striking combinations. His style is inspired by surrealism and modern digital techniques. Davoli's work often features unexpected juxtapositions and dreamlike atmospheres, inviting viewers to explore the boundaries between reality and fantasy. His unique approach to digital art has garnered him a large following on social media platforms, where he continues to push the boundaries of visual storytelling.