Thomas Struth
A series of buildings connected by its everyday-life qualities and its heroic graphics
Thomas Struth is a German contemporary photographer who captures the heroic graphics of the city. Thomas Struth is known for his black and white images of the streets in New York. Central symmetry is evident in this image, where all buildings are within the same distance from central point but in opposite direction. By exploring Struth’s photography, it makes a person think even while experiencing everyday tasks. For example, we walk through the streets of the city without understanding the art that’s around us.
A vanishing point appears in the middle of the photo, allowing us to focus on that area. This technique is measured out by the rule of thirds, which helps us establish that vanishing point. The floor is also an outstanding element, which allows the eye to focus on the water that then leads us to the vanishing point. The black and white photos create meaning and explore the busy yet dull life that people feel like they must conform to. These photographs establish the architectural buildings of the city, and how eventful and busy the city can be.
In other photos, I have tried capturing the city life in a tight intimate space as shown in Struth’s photograph. These photos are a complete opposite of the others as it is in a more tight space with less people. However, the photograph has been taken at an angle to replicate Struth’s image. This photo shows the quiet side to the city but still vibrant by its lights. These photos have been taken at different times; showing different views of the city as there are less people. Furthermore, regardless what the time frame is, the buildings are connected by its everyday-life qualities.
Reference
Struth, T. 1978, Thomas Struth-Photographs-New York/Soho, photograph, viewed 21 March 2018,< https://www.moma.org/collection/works/49397>.
