Showcase of Undergraduate Research and Creative Endeavors (SOURCE)

Wabi-Sabi

One thing that many people desire is a perfect world. In the advertising industry, everything is perfect. No hairs are out of place, no products are scratched, nothing is lifeless. Wabi-Sabi uses photography to present a perfection within imperfection. It challenges the idea of what is beautiful, desirable, and perfect. Not many people would find a dead flower in an advertisement, or if they did, there would be negative connotations tied to it. This photograph pushes the boundaries of what is considered worthy of our attention and worthy of our love. When the viewer first encounters the piece, they will see a large photograph of a dead flower divided into separate pieces that are displayed at different depths. Each piece works to guide the viewer’s eye around the entire subject. The placement of the work in a corner, combined with the use of lighting and shadow, makes the piece feel more intimate, emphasizing the three-dimensionality of the work to the viewer. They may see their own reflection upon the acrylic finish of each individual piece. In certain spots, there may even be a slight glare of the light on the surface. This further enhances the idea of perfection in imperfection. The flower displayed in the photo is imperfect. It is dried out, droopy, and decayed. That imperfection is contrasted by the clean white background, the lighting placement, and the difference in rich colors. The photograph itself suggests a beauty and perfection that is not typically associated with a dead flower. The three-dimensional display represents an attention to detail and craftsmanship that one may not attribute to a dead flower, as a dead flower is usually seen as not worthy of this much attention or love. However, that attention and love is exactly what was given to the flower in the making of this piece, and also in the awareness and observation from the viewer.