Mobile II

Allen Coles

Digital photography with archival ink on fine art paper

$230.00

2D Medium: Digital, Photography
Dimensions: 25 l x 19 w x 1 h
Weight: 1 pounds

Originally from New York City, I have been residing in Columbia, SC since 2005 after
having lived in the West for many years.  I’ve been taking photos for decades since
getting by first camera in the ’70s.  In the beginning they were snapshots, but over time I strove to make what I call
impressionistic interpretations of the stark reality in front of the camera.

 I have experimented with different techniques to soften the image, sometimes seeking a
degree of ambiguity that hopefully evokes questions and feelings from
the viewer.  I’m still exploring different compositional and technical approaches as a means of expressing my photographic language.  Digital
dodging and burning, emphasizing light and shadow, intentional blurring, seeking complementary colors when possible, and creating composites when
appropriate are a few of the techniques I use. I also prefer photographs with a degree of ambiguity.

The images labeled Mobile II, Majestic Perch, and Dancing to Oblivion reflect my approach to photography.  One was inspired by a large mobile I saw at a national museum.  By isolating it from its surroundings, cropping to change the composition and altering the colors, the abstract beauty of the piece has been emphasized. The majestic looking bird withstanding a downpour was taken in my backyard.  It reminded me of the times I’ve been caught unprepared for rain and had no choice but to endure it. The owl was made the center point by being surrounded by foliage with reduced vibrancy and made blurred by the rain and slow shutter speed.  Dancing to Oblivion is a well-known Argentine Tango piece.  I saw the couple dancing and had to catch them dancing in front of the colorful window. Caught mid-step one may not at first realize that they were engaged in a very romantic dance. I chose to render them in silhouette.

Lately, I’ve returned more frequently to creating B&W images, which in themselves are a step from reality. My subjects can be anywhere and anything providing they
communicate something to me and hopefully the viewer.  
I’m honored to have had my work recognized in juried exhibitions, including ArtFields, the Anderson
Arts Center, the South Carolina State Museum, and the Biennale in Hilton Head.  In addition,
 some pieces have been sold to private collectors.