Mike Osborne
This project was an exploration of the abstractions found in the details on old cars and trucks as they disintegrate and slowly return to nature. These abstract photographs reveal the rusting metal, chipped and cracked paint, and broken glass found on such vehicles.
An abstract image is one in which its subject-what the photographer is trying to say about the photo- is entirely unrelated to its subject matter (in this case a dilapidated old vehicle). This disconnect between the subject and the subject matter forces the mind to come to grips with the image-not the subject matter. The lack of identifiable subject matter can be challenging and rewarding for both photographers and viewers. For photographers, it can be difficult to choose a composition that is not really connected to the thing photographed. And viewers can be confused about how to feel about an image when they don't know what it is. But when successful, the reward can be a creative and exciting visual experience.
There is a whole world of available abstract potential out there. I am especially attracted to the possibilities represented by water/ice & reflections, trees & wood, flowers & fungi, architecture, and rocks & minerals. But it is only fairly recently that I have discovered the magical scenery to be found in decaying machinery and vehicles. Can't wait to see what comes next!
These images are printed on a fine art photo rag metallic paper. This is a medium that seems to work well with the reflective properties of the metal and glass.