Research into Art therapy through photography and how this links in with tranquility
What is Art therapy and how does it link to photography?
Art therapy is form of psychotherapy involving the encouragement of free self-expression through painting, drawing, or modelling, used as a remedial or diagnostic activity. This includes phototherapy; the use of photos in order to aid those in therapy.
Why Art/Phototherapy?
Humans are visual creatures and we are bound to be biased towards visual stimulation. We have evolved to the point where our vision tells us very quickly if the environment is safe (evoking happy/positive emotional responses) or risky (evoking more anger or fear based emotional responses). A significant proportion of our brain and our emotions are attached to processing what we see. This brings me to the use of photography; positive and tranquil images may aid in the reinforcement of someones mentality, showing how the images I take during this project may link in with art therapy, as well as embodying the tranquil briefing I have chosen.
What types of photography am I going to use?
In this project I will utilise the photographic genre, nature photography as i feel this genre is in direct line with both phototherapy and tranquillity.
Nature photography, as shown in an NIH study, can give us a "physical and mental sense of being away from the monotonous urban environment. Whether images or the real deal, nature scenes give us visually-rich stimuli that nourish the brain."
Here are some prime examples of Nature Photography:
A prominent figure in photography, Ansel Adams, has followed this idea of art therapy through nature photography.
Adams believed in the "therapeutic power of nature" and would express it through his work as seen here:
These images have acted as the main inspiration of a large amount of my own ideas thus far. The wide and open landscapes make for a larger view upon the scene, as well as a larger view upon life as a whole. The emotions evoked from these images have given me the motivation to recreate them through my photoshoots, reproducing the idea of having a wider view upon life and appreciating the smaller details in a bigger picture, similarly to how we should see the world rather than focussing on the negatives.
Adams’ mastery of the Zone System allowed him to achieve exceptional tonal range and detail in his photographs, which contributed significantly to the sense of tranquillity and depth in his images. His use of large-format cameras enabled him to capture fine details and a wide range of tones, from deep blacks to bright whites.
Acclaimed as one of the most distinguished photographers during the twentieth century, Adams is famous for his collection of black and white landscape photographs which epitomizes earth's nature and create a sense of inner peace. Yosemite National Park forms part of this particular series and it is full of thought invoked images displayed in his book, “Yosemite and the Range of Light.”
Adams’ Yosemite photographs have had a lasting impact on both the art of photography and the conservation movement. His images not only highlight the natural beauty of Yosemite but also underline the importance of preserving such pristine landscapes for future generations. The tranquillity and majesty captured in his work continue to inspire photographers and nature enthusiasts alike.
His work in Yosemite National Park stands as a testament to his ability to capture the serene and majestic qualities of nature. His photographs, through meticulous technique and profound vision, offer a window into the tranquil beauty of the natural world, encouraging both appreciation and conservation.
Ansel Adams' prints of exquisite landscapes of his work in the Yosemite National Park, are often used in a therapeutic environment. Adams' photographs are used in several different ways here; many health care settings, such as hospitals, have his images in books, calendars, and mounted prints placed throughout the building to create more of a healing environment. These prints are often in places where they can be seen by all, such as in a public corridor or a waiting room, thus helping to alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that naturally comes from a hospital setting. The power of Adams' art is much more than just superficial. It acts as a gateway to serenity and tranquillity.
The podcast, "The Ansel Adams Photography Series" by Jeff Curto discusses how much of an impact his work had. Curto explains how Adam believed that photography conveyed messages when words were not an option. His work spoke volumes. Ansel Adams once said, "When words become unclear, I shall focus with photographs. When images become inadequate, I shall be content with silence." This quote further stresses the importance of photographs to express what words are unable to.
In conclusion, Ansel Adams' work has increased the respect I have for nature photography as a way to reduce stress and anxiety. The dedication behind capturing a scene like Ansel Adams' has shown me more in depth what makes an image peaceful and calming in the realm of art therapy.
Yosemite and the Range of Light images that I personally take inspiration from:
Monolith, the Face of Half Dome (1927)
• This is one of Adams’ early and most famous works, which shows the powerful Full Dome. The picture brings out the intricate textures and interplay of lights and shadows on the rock’s face that creates a serene yet majestic atmosphere.
• This is one of Adams’ early and most famous works, which shows the powerful Full Dome. The picture brings out the intricate textures and interplay of lights and shadows on the rock’s face that creates a serene yet majestic atmosphere.
Clearing Winter Storm (1944)
• This photograph captures what Yosemite is all about- dramatic as well as peaceful scenes. After winter storms, it gives us a breath-taking view of Yosemite Valley with clearings in the clouds revealing snow-covered trees and cliffs. The diffuse light and the silence of the snowy ground add serenity to the scene.
• This photograph captures what Yosemite is all about- dramatic as well as peaceful scenes. After winter storms, it gives us a breath-taking view of Yosemite Valley with clearings in the clouds revealing snow-covered trees and cliffs. The diffuse light and the silence of the snowy ground add serenity to the scene.
Moonrise, Hernandez, New Mexico (1941)
• It is not in Yosemite but like his other works tranquillity and nature are themes that can be seen here. The picture captures a quiet village under a rising moon with peaceful glow illuminating both clouds and landscape that bring solemn peace inside.
• It is not in Yosemite but like his other works tranquillity and nature are themes that can be seen here. The picture captures a quiet village under a rising moon with peaceful glow illuminating both clouds and landscape that bring solemn peace inside.
