Those of us who are not artists often lack instruction on the merits of contrast. But many of us do it unknowingly every day. An outfit with light and dark colors, an Instagram filter, or even bright makeup with a dark outfit. These things display the concept of light and dark or contrast, the idea of pairing up opposing colors or items to the benefit or display of both.
Lars Midnatt’s Dahlia is a great example of this concept. While yes, the black background and the pale model are the majority of the contrast, it’s the little additions that really make this a study in contrast and elegance. Her black choker is a great example. Top and bottom it adorns her neck, but it blends in seamlessly with the blackness on either side of her. The fishnets and stockings do something similar, but more sophisticated. They trap her arms and legs in a net, partially hiding and blending into the darkness and partially shining out from underneath. Contrast isn’t just one light vs. dark idea. It is nuanced in the shadows of Dahlia’s behind and the curve of her bright blonde hair.
But the contrasts don’t end there. Dahlia is an extremely brightly colored flower, coming in yellows, pinks, and purples, and all measures in between. Someone named after such bright color to be so devoid of it is an interesting contrast as well. Thus, in such a nuanced piece, we should take the time to admire Dahlia and all her dark places.
pathetic
July 25, 2017The link does not work for me.
Kazami
July 26, 2017oh! metoo. I almost think my internet was done…….