When I look at a building or architectural element in detail, I frequently wonder about the intention of the architect or designer. Did he or she consider how the sun would fall on the structure, creating a constant interplay of light and shadow? My husband, an architect, assures me that they do. Current wisdom and knowledge of Stonehenge and the Sun Dagger on Fajada Butte at Chaco Canyon reflect the knowledge of and changes in sun angle throughout the year. Is it also true of a ramada or sun shade design?
Fellow photographer Steve Immel and I recently spent a day photographing several parts of Santa Fe, including Museum Hill. I had not been there for roughly fifteen years, and seeing it again, as if it were the first time, I must compliment everyone who was involved in the design and construction process. A great deal of thought was put into the design of each building, and in connecting the various museums, providing landscaping and seating in both sun and shade. Our mid-morning visit was littered with eye-dazzling light and shadow, courtesy of ramadas in the courtyard.
The joinery between the stuccoed pillar and beams in the photograph below almost looks Mayan to me.
A stunning bronze titled "Apache Mountain Spirit Dancer" by Craig Dan Goseyun, draws your eye in for so many different reasons. Here is a close up of the dancer's skirt, composed of pieces of extruded metal which create flowing shadows of their own.
As spring progresses, shadows are changing, and the sun is moving at its fastest pace of the season. A reminder to myself and fellow photographers that an early start in the morning, a break at midday, and more shooting late in afternoon and evening is the best shooting schedule.
until next Monday,
DB
a passion for the image
