Open Hand – New York City Art Print Explanation

This is one of my favourite pieces I created while in New York City. Sometimes the greatest images are born out of chance and sometimes it also just depends on interpretation. Read on to learn what I was looking for, but what I really captured instead. The message I found in this image is profound.

 

INTENT

Before going to New York City I had already predetermined that I would exercise my photographic eye and to create art prints. That meant I would keep a keen eye out for wall-worthy shots and that I would also try to limit the amount of shots I took. That included the total number of shots for the whole trip as well as of the same subject. New York City has been photographed inside and out; any image search will prove that. I wanted to capture New York City from a view that only I could capture and I don’t mean that in an “I’m special” sort of way. What I mean is “there’s only one me standing and photographing in this single moment in time” sort of way.

BACKGROUND STORY

I was on the top floor waiting for my mom and sister to finish up with their window shopping. Simply looking down I noticed the contrast between the dark floor and the light seating. I also liked the the rigidity of all of it. Trying to create balance in the photo, I shifted my position a bit, and took a few shots. I try to keep people out of my shots and when I do have to include them I try to avoid taking photos of their faces.

Trying to get everything to line up, but still create a balanced composition was a definite challenge. I never expected the gentleman sitting on the bench to create such a profound gesture. Do I have any idea what he was doing? Nope. However, with any art the beauty is in the eyes of the beholder and I hope you see what I see as well. Or perhaps you have your own opinion (which I hope you leave in a comment at the end).

 

PERSPECTIVE: RELATIONSHIPS

What I see in the photo is a man trying to see what life would be like without technology. He had probably been on his phone right before the photo was taken and as the people (as seen by the legs) were walking past him. I can’t even imagine what he would be doing otherwise. Can you? What does this image say to you?

RELATIONSHIP WITH TECHNOLOGY

Sometimes we need to slip technology away and imagine life without it. When I was growing up, I witnessed the advent of gaming consoles, the internet, TV, laptops, MP3 players, smart phones, and more. Even so, it’s hard for me to imagine life before today. A life where I could call someone if I couldn’t find where they lived based on the directions Google gave me or a life where I couldn’t turn off my air conditioner using an app on my phone.

Sometimes we need to slip technology away and imagine life without it.

However, I don’t feel that technology is a bad thing that should be shunned. Should we take breaks? Perhaps. Technology is meant to make our lives better and if you thought about each piece that you used in your life you’d probably see the benefits to all of them. I suppose deep down inside what matters is that we don’t make it the centre of our existence.

CONNECTING

Let your phone connect you in meaningful conversation with someone you wouldn’t normally be able to talk to, play an online game with someone who would have trouble throwing a ball, play a movie on your 60″ TV to enjoy mutual laughs with your family, use a camera while travelling to capture the very moments and places you’ll only re-experience through them, and use that online bank account to donate money to the charity you may not have the personal time to donate to.

 

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Jonathan How is the photographer behind Made by Ten and calls Milton his home. He specializes in creating beautiful, creative portraits of real women. He uses photography (and this blog) to help them build confidence and love for themselves and creates artistic images for their homes and offices. You can see him driving around the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) in Ontario, Canada from portrait to fashion shoot and back again.