Dudleya Ingens c. 1933 - 1949

Imogen Cunningham made this black and white photograph, Dudleya Ingens, with light and shadow. I wonder what it was like for her to wander in a garden, seeking out sculptural forms in nature. I know that feeling as a painter, when you look at something until it suddenly rearranges itself in front of you, and you think, “Aha! That’s the picture!” Here, these curving leaves create drama and tension, pulling us into a world of light, while the dark background pushes back, asserting its presence. Notice how the leaves overlap and intertwine, creating a beautiful composition. It’s almost figurative, like a gathering of figures, but it’s not quite clear what kind. I’m reminded of Georgia O’Keefe, and her paintings of flowers. Artists are always in conversation with each other, working through similar problems and exploring different ways of seeing. I hope this image inspires you, as it has me, to look more closely at the world around you and to find beauty in unexpected places.