Don’t Show Me Everything

A painting requires a little mystery, some vagueness, and some fantasy. When you always make your meaning perfectly plain you end up boring people.
~ Edgar Degas ~

I found that quote from Degas a while back. Man, I couldn’t agree more. The images that really connect with me are photos that do leave some information out. I don’t want to be told everything by the photo. That allows my mind to engage, possibly add my own twist to what I think I’m seeing in the photo. That makes the viewing experience and my connection to the photo; or painting; or sculpture… more personal. It can also show me what’s really important in this photo. Where should I put my attention. If everything is shown, what’s the photo about? Everything?

If I see a photo that is lit very evenly, sharp from corner to corner, I might be impressed with the technical aspects of the image for a minute or two. But I need something more interesting to hold my attention much longer than that. Make me wonder about the story; make me want to know more.

Mystery, such a powerful tool.