Wait? What? 2011 is half over? When did that happen?
Indeed, its true. It feels like just yesterday, we were celebrating the arrival of a new year, now, many of us are baking in summer heat, enjoying the cool climate of the high country. Time does fly, but its been an incredibly productive year so far, not only photographically, but professionally; in addition, my year has been incredibly enlightening on a personal level too.
I’ve been taking the time over the last few days to review some of my images from the year so far. There’s no real purpose for this, nostalgia I suppose. However, in selecting my July image of the month, I decided to re-introduce an image that’s already been featured on my blog. I know it won’t appeal to everyone, but I keep coming back to it as one that’s very special. Its definitely one of my personal favorites.
Subtle Beauty, March 2011
As I said previously, the Paria is one of those rivers that isn’t for everyone, and its surely not as sought after as the Green, Colorado or Dirty Devil, but its gorgeous, and I think the simple beauty of it is what moves me so much. Like so many of you, I feel safe and comforted when I’m in a canyon, and the way the walls of the Paria sweep overhead, sheltering the hiker, only adds to the effect. Katie Lee describes a friend’s reaction to Navajo Sandstone (1):
I have licked sandstone so many times, just gotten on hands and knees and passed my lips right over the surface, either the smooth on narrow canyon walls, or the sandy-rough up on top. And Navajo Sandstone…that rock has gotten inside of me…whales and thighs and water and moons. MY GOD, ITS SHAPES!!! SHOULD WE EVEN BE ALLOWED TO SEE SUCH THINGS? I started using the word sensual all over the place.
Without getting too risqué (this is a family-friendly blog after all), I’ll agree with the author of that passage. The redrock wilderness of the southwest moves people in special ways, and I think that’s why this image moves me so. I hope you enjoy it too!
(1) In her essay, Sandstone Seduction.
Great B/W work Greg. Well worth a photo of the month feature. The lighter passageway at top center is the perfect touch.
Many thanks PJ! I have to say that choosing my photo of the month is a tough task–I’m glad this one has resonated with you!
You’ve arranged this so well with the river directing us toward what is beyond in the light and left just enough in the shadows.
Thanks Steve! I haven’t posted this on on NSN yet, but will soon.
Wonderful image, love all the textures. And yes, where did the rest of the year go?
Ha…I’m not sure where it went. If you find it, let me know, okay? 🙂
That is a fine photograph for sure. It definitely gives the viewer the feeling of the dark, moist canyon. Katie Lee would love your image and have a field day describing it. She and my parents were long-time mutual admirers. Have you ever listened to any of her music? If you like folk and the Southwest, it is great stuff. I can still hear her voice echoing through our house, “Ooooh, that muddy river…”
Thank you, David. I’ve only just finished one of her books, on your previous suggestion; I haven’t checked out any of her music yet. I do have to say, though, that I enjoy her writing very much…she can describe the desert in a way I only wish I could!
I heard her sing and met her once at a Grand Canyon River Guides meeting: a true southwest original. I agree with David that your image works very well with her words.
Well, somebody has finally put into words what the desert does to people. It is mesmerizing. Your image draws you in and captivates you. Well done. Thank you for the image and the link to Katie Lee.
No problem, Greg–I think you’ll really like some of Katie’s short stories and essays. They’re written from the heart, that’s for sure!
Spectacular shot and the message strikes home for me, Greg.
I am officially inspired. 🙂
Sharon
Thanks, Sharon! I’m glad I could share. More from Katie Lee in future blog posts…
When I lived in China & Tibet, the SW seemed so far away. I’d visited a few times, but had a lot of wild high mountains to play with.
Now we’re by the ocean in Northern Spain, the call of the canyons is pretty loud!!!
I am sure in the next year or so, Juanli will be coming to the western US again for a longer, more prolonged stay…
keep posting the inspiration 🙂
Juanli & me 🙂 not just Juanli
exotic place. nice shot