The theme for these series of photos is an exploration of a peaceful solitude, a feeling of quietness, remoteness and isolation however still feeling tranquil. It is about coming at peace with oneself, a sense of exploration and individuality. There’s a sense of calmness in being isolated in large areas, an empty car park, a rainy night, or fulfilling wanderlust in interesting places.
I presented my series with both colour and black and white images, alternating between the two, and alternating between two types of solitude. To portray the feeling of peace and quietness I used warm lighting with strong contrast and shadows. With the black and white photos inspired by Miyako Ishiuchi’s grainy photographs, an air of melancholy and longing can be depicted. Photos of an individual alone in a dark setting may also bring fear and suspense however here I hope it conveys mystery and privacy. The alternating photos can also be seen as rotating between two versions of oneself, the present and the past, inner and outer. It is also interesting to see how each viewer can show different interpretations.
