 Jesu Cristo y La Virgin in San Jose, California At a local Mexican supermarket in San Jose, California, I came across a collection of statues featuring Jesus and the Virgin Mary displayed on the top shelf. These figures are revered as strong symbols of Christian faith in Mexican culture, commonly found in homes and churches throughout the Americas. It's likely that the statues were placed on the top shelf out of religious respect, mirroring their positioning in Catholic churches.
However, seeing such important icons of religious faith being sold in a commercial setting made me reflect on the commercialization of faith. On the one hand, the presence of these statues can be seen as a way for individuals to personalize their religious experience by bringing these figures into their homes. On the other hand, it can also be viewed as a way to congeal faith with others, by making it a mass-produced commodity available for purchase. This small example of the intersection of faith and commerce highlights the tension between individualized spirituality and the commodification of religious icons.
0 Comments
    I wanted to share the images I made of a serene and eerily noiseless day at Old Orchard Beach. The usually bustling beachfront had transformed into a winter wonderland, with the snow muffling sounds and creating an almost mystical atmosphere. The white blanket of snow covered the sand and dunes, creating a rare never before experience for this California native. The rolling waves of the Atlantic Ocean continued to crash against the shore, but they too were hushed by the snow. The boardwalk and pier were empty. The occasional crunch of snow underfoot and the sound of seagulls in the distance are the only sounds I heard. I took this time to slow down and appreciate the beauty of winter, and to experience the solitude of a noiseless snow day at Old Orchard Beach.       I took a photographic walk through the Eastern Promenade in Portland, Maine during a sunny snow day. It was my opportunity to capture the beauty of winter in all its glory. The sun shining down on the freshly fallen snow created a magical, otherworldly atmosphere, with glistening icicles, glittering snowflakes, and shimmering ice formations. I took advantage of the bright light to create images with high contrast and rich colors, highlighting the details of the scenery in my neighborhood. There was a stillness of the promenade, with its wide-open vistas, frozen trees, and still harbor. The walk through the Eastern Promenade on a sunny snow day was a chance to capture a morsel of winter in Maine, and to preserve the memories of a magical day, and to share the beauty of this special season with you.     The view of Mount Washington from the Mount Washington Hotel in New Hampshire is breathtaking. The hotel, perched atop a hill, provides a panoramic view of the surrounding White Mountains, with Mount Washington as the centerpiece. The majestic peak rises majestically in the distance, its snow-capped summit towering above the tree-lined hills. On a clear day, visitors can see for miles, taking in the scenic beauty of the landscape. Whether enjoyed from the hotel's veranda or through a window in one of its rooms, the view of Mount Washington is truly awe-inspiring.  The lobby of the Mount Washington Hotel is an iconic setting, renowned for its grandeur and elegance. The high ceilings, elaborate chandeliers, and gleaming marble floors create an ambiance of refined sophistication. Rich wood paneling, plush seating, and grand staircases further add to the lobby's grandeur. The Mount Washington Hotel's lobby is a true masterpiece of design.
 The Pigeon House Portland, Maine A sea of pigeons inhabits a roof on the edge of the city entrance, their coos echoing through the bustling street below. The birds have claimed the rooftop as their own, creating a bustling colony amidst the pathway in to Portland, Maine. Their grey plumage blends in with the cool surroundings, but the fluttering of their wings and rustling of their feathers betrays their presence. The pigeons are a common sight for those entering the city, almost as if they are saying hello to all of the new visitors coming in.
 Newport, Rhode Island Newport, Rhode Island was a popular destination in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, attracting wealthy families and artists alike. In the olden days, Newport was a bustling hub of commerce, with tall ships coming in and out of its harbor, bringing goods from all over the world. The city's stunning coastal landscapes, grand Gilded Age mansions, and vibrant cultural scene made it a popular summer retreat. Artists were particularly drawn to Newport, as they found inspiration in the stunning scenery and unique architecture. The sunsets over Newport are particularly stunning, with the golden rays of the sun casting a warm glow over the city. .The colony of artists that formed in Newport at the time created a thriving cultural community that still influences the city today. The combination of natural beauty and cultural richness made Newport a sought-after destination for artists looking to escape the bustle of city life and tap into their creativity.
The golden sunset is a favorite among tourists and locals alike, who gather to watch the sun dip below the horizon, painting the sky with shades of orange, red, and pink. |
Liz DavenportAs a photographer, I am attracted to time, adventure, and the unique. This stems from a desire to capture moments that are fleeting and capture experiences that are one-of-a-kind. The world is full of endless possibilities and as a photographer, curiosity drives me to explore and document these instances through the lens of my camera. By seeking out new adventures, I hope to be able to capture moments that are unique and timeless. Whether it's the intricacies of a bustling city or the serenity of a remote landscape, I am constantly intrigued by these words so much so that I have recognized them to be so dearly valued in my personal life. Unique. Adventure. Time. ArchivesCategories |
RSS Feed