Slices of Life...

A picture, it is often said, is worth one thousand words. Images predate language and are still able to transcend it. The images in ONE THOUSAND WORDS convey ways in which stories carry meaning for diverse cultures and help them understand their common bonds. (absolutearts.com)

The pieces of art that strongly resonate with me capture real life. And that is why Edward Hopper’s paintings are a treasure to me...it's the realistic depiction of urban life that grabs me.

With Nighthawks (1942), Hopper's sense of melancholy and isolation between patrons unfolds inside the diner under an overpowering electric light. The diners seemingly sit silently intent of reviewing their thoughts. Alone.

Hooper was well skilled in manipulating empty space to create a sense of distance between characters --- as seen here in his depiction of a New England couple in Summer Evening. A simple porch light highlights the painting’s troubled subjects and Hopper's sense of loneliness again penetrates the image. There is sense of call-and-response between the painting and the audience in that each viewer is made to reflect on a quiet, uncomfortable time with a mate.

And for my last photo, I wanted to present what relief truly looks like. Denver Broncos Quarterback John Elway hoists his first Super Bowl trophy completing a 13-year odyssey that saw the legend guide the Broncos to lose three previous championship games 155 to 40 points.

That fact was seemingly jettisoned from Elway’s mind when the Vince Lombardi trophy when the Hall of Fame player received the prize from then Commissioner Paul Tagliabue in 1998.

Photo Credits:

Nighthawk and Summer Evening were taken from Lenin Imports.
John Elway photo taken from the Denver Broncos Team Web site.