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Phil Douglis | all galleries >> Galleries >> Gallery Eight: Light and shadow shape meaning > Slivers of light, Gouda, The Netherlands, 2005
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17-JUN-2005

Slivers of light, Gouda, The Netherlands, 2005

When I look for light, I look first at how it falls on the subject. There are infinite differences in the patterns of light and shadow – no two are precisely alike. However there are certain arrangements of light and shadow that offer instant drama. This is one of them – I call it the “slivers of light” pattern. Whenever light and shadow alternate within a very small space, the chance of creating a visually arresting image out of it are there for the asking. All we need is subject matter within that space that carries the potential for expression. In this case, the high mid-afternoon sun was dividing the image into three distinct bands of light and three areas of deep shadow. The sculpture represents a divinity or ruler of some kind. The sun illuminates the scepter at left, half the head and bit of neck and chest in the center, and one arm at right, along with two panels of brickwork behind it. The light is selective and emphatic. Because of it, this image speaks of strength, resolve, and power. The “slivers of light” pattern draws the eye to the subject, part by part, and holds it, demanding our attention and thought.

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