text: Photographed mostly in February-April 2023
  Light is one of the few basic requirements for life. It is also the fastest entity in our universe, with the possible exception of the expansion of the universe itself. But even so, light is not present everywhere. Or rather, it is present in different places at different intensities. And where there is no light, there is darkness. There is also a symbolism associated with these phenomena that derives from their properties. We seek and need light. The darkness in our lives is usually something we try to eliminate. Light is hope; it emanates from a beacon; it illuminates things as they really are; it is at the end of the tunnel; it comes from above; it aids in orientation; we can see things because it reflects off the objects around us. According to the biblical record, it was the first thing that was created. Darkness, on the other hand, provides a cloak for crime; it prevents vision and knowledge because it shrouds existence in the unknown; it complicates the growth and life of organisms; it is used to describe the perception of depression and other unfortunate psychological conditions. In our world, its natural antidote is the sun. And its influence we extend through windows and skylights and replace it with fire and electricity when necessary.
  Light manifests around us in many ways, emitted by many sources in many places. And as a result, it takes many shapes – literally, because it creates geometric shapes and patterns through its interaction with its surroundings. It thus defines itself against the darkness, in contrast to which it is best seen. So these two opposites play a game. A game of reflections, shadows, penumbrae. Light makes physical shapes, patterns and surfaces stand out. Even on a symbolic level, light is found in many places and in many forms in our lives. Whether we seek it in ten purpose of our actions, through meditation, prayer, strengthening relationships, learning, building something of value, helping others, striving for good, or in any other ways, we always find it as it renders shapes and fights darkness in the play of shadows. There are many patterns of light. And it is always best seen in contrast to the darkness.
  Just as it is for seeing, light is essential for photography, because in photography the light emitted or reflected is captured not on the retina but on a film frame or digital sensor. In February, I decided to start a project in which I took one photo almost every day for over a month, through which photos I wanted to capture the shapes of light as I see it in my surroundings. Mostly, these photos were taken around the place where I live. But I also took a few during my travels. My goal was to look for light and its different manifestations. It was almost a therapeutic activity that made me realize how much light really surrounds us at every moment, even when everything seems dark. Even when the clouds withdraw and we cannot see clearly, there is light to be found. There is hope.
  © 2024 MARTIN AUDRLICKÝ