Author: admin

Posted on

The Photo Collection: First Full Publication

The following photograph, taken in Soho, London at Christmas 1993 or 94, chosen for its hidden agenda.

These two homeless men were about to start kicking football around the square. I asked if I could take their photo and this was the instantaneous pose they gave me. I hesitated a moment, believing I could organise a pose more in keeping with contemporary pictures of despair and homelessness. It quickly became apparent that patience was not something at least one of them (man on left) had much to give. So I just clicked the shutter and rolled the film on. He came towards me and asked for money. I had but a few coppers and silver on me. I was quite poor myself at this time, given that Iwas undergoing an acrimonious divorce.

I felt quite threatened at this point and swiftly my hand in my pocket and grabbed what was there, dropping a 50p piece again (my return tube fare) before showing about 10 or 12p. He grabbed it and backed off again. I felt a bit better and we exchanged Christmas greetings and parted company.

This was my first and also my very last encounter as a photographer with the homeless. I’ve since come to respect their privacy, and later regular encounters as a resident in inner London, have taught me to still distrust them. No more of that now.

Homeless Pair in Soho Square, Christmas 1993 or 4. Ilford FP4 iso 125, Nikon 90. Copyright Shaun Everett 1994

I suspect these gents are long dead. Their addiction to alcohol undoubtedly saw to that. I trust they had a peaceful Christmas though and they made the best of what was left of their lives.

Homelessness is a cruel fact of societies and many photographers have attempted represented the despair. I’m thankful I did not pursue this avenue of photography, which became pastische after the 1940s.

There were though some great exponents of living poverty through the 1970s in particular. Today, camera phones are so abundant, that hardly anyone bothers to photograph the homeless in the same manner of the great photographers of the 1930s and 40s. I suspect the tables are turned somewhat, given that homelessness does not preclude the poor from owning such a device!

Posted on

SHiP (Search for Hidden Particles) Experiment at CERN

The SHIP (Search for Hidden Particles) experiment is a proposed experiment at the CERN SPS (Super Proton Synchrotron). It is part of the broader research community at CERN. SHIP aims to explore the “Hidden Sector” of particles, which includes candidates for dark matter and other hypothetical particles that could extend the Standard Model of particle physics.

Objectives of the SHIP Experiment:

  1. Search for Hidden Particles: SHIP aims to detect long-lived, weakly interacting particles that are not accounted for in the Standard Model. These particles could include heavy neutral leptons, dark photons, and other exotic particles that could provide insights into dark matter and the matter-antimatter asymmetry in the universe.
  2. Study of Neutrino Physics: SHIP also plans to investigate neutrino physics, particularly focusing on the properties and interactions of tau neutrinos, the least understood type of neutrino.

How the SHIP Experiment Works:

  1. Beam Production: The SPS accelerator will produce a high-intensity beam of protons. These protons will be directed onto a target, producing a shower of secondary particles.
  2. Decay Volume: The particles produced from the target will pass through a decay volume, a large area where these particles can decay into other particles. This decay volume is essential for detecting long-lived particles that travel some distance before decaying.
  3. Detection System: The SHIP experiment will employ a sophisticated detection system designed to identify the decay products of these hidden particles. The detection system will include tracking detectors, calorimeters, and muon detectors to accurately measure the properties of the particles produced in the decays.

Significance of SHIP:

  1. New Physics: Discovering hidden particles could provide evidence for physics beyond the Standard Model, addressing some of the most profound questions in particle physics and cosmology.
  2. Dark Matter: Some of the hidden particles SHIP aims to detect are potential candidates for dark matter, which makes up about 27% of the universe but has yet to be directly observed.
  3. Matter-Antimatter Asymmetry: Understanding why the universe is made mostly of matter rather than an equal mixture of matter and antimatter could be advanced by studying heavy neutral leptons and other particles SHIP targets.

In summary, the SHIP experiment at CERN aims to explore uncharted territories in particle physics by searching for hidden particles that could extend our understanding of the universe. Its findings could have significant implications for our knowledge of dark matter, neutrino physics, and the fundamental forces of nature.

Posted on

The Large Hadron Collider is not a perfect circle?

The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is not a perfect circle. Instead, it is an approximation of a circular shape but actually forms a polygon with many straight segments joined by curves. There are several reasons for this design:

  1. Engineering and Construction Practicalities: Constructing a perfect circular tunnel is extremely challenging from an engineering perspective. The LHC’s tunnel, which is located 100 meters underground, follows the natural contours of the landscape to a certain extent. Building a series of straight segments connected by curves simplifies the construction process and allows for more straightforward alignment and stability.
  2. Magnetic Field Requirements: The LHC uses superconducting magnets to bend and focus the particle beams. These magnets are placed in the straight segments and are designed to generate very precise and strong magnetic fields. Having straight sections allows for more controlled and uniform magnetic fields, which are necessary for maintaining the high-speed proton beams on their correct paths.
  3. Access and Maintenance: The design with straight segments and bends facilitates easier access for maintenance and upgrades. It also allows for the installation of various experimental apparatuses at specific points around the collider where different experiments can be conducted.
  4. Optimized Layout: The LHC is housed in the same tunnel that was used for the previous Large Electron-Positron Collider (LEP). The shape of the tunnel was dictated by the needs of the LEP and reused for the LHC. This existing infrastructure influenced the design and layout of the LHC.

In summary, while the LHC is often described as circular, its shape is actually a polygon with many straight sections joined by curves. This design optimizes the collider’s functionality, construction, and maintenance requirements, making it feasible to achieve the precise conditions needed for high-energy particle collisions.

Posted on

Exploring Kandinsky’s Yellow, Red, Blue, 1925

Walissy Kandinsky, Yellow, Red and Blue, oil on canvas (1925) Georges Pompidou Center, Paris,

Historical Context:
In the tumultuous landscape of early 20th-century Europe, Kandinsky emerged as a leading proponent of abstract art, advocating for the liberation of art from representational constraints. Influenced by movements such as Expressionism and Theosophy, Kandinsky developed a unique visual language characterized by dynamic shapes and intense colors, laying the groundwork for “Yellow, Red, Blue 1925.”

Formal Analysis:
“Yellow, Red Blue 1925” exemplifies Kandinsky’s mastery of form and color. The composition pulsates with geometric shapes and intersecting lines, creating a sense of rhythmic harmony. The juxtaposition of primary colors—yellow, red and blue—intensifies the painting’s emotional impact, inviting viewers into a realm of pure abstraction.

Symbolism and Meaning:
Central to Kandinsky’s artistic philosophy was the belief in the spiritual power of color and form. In “Yellow, Red, Blue 1925,” each hue carries symbolic significance: red evokes passion and vitality, yellow represents joy and enlightenment, and blue conveys depth and introspection. The dynamic interplay between these colors suggests a visual symphony, inviting viewers to contemplate the deeper essence of existence.

Critical Reception:
Art historians and critics have offered diverse interpretations of “Yellow, Red, Blue 1925.” Some view the painting as a celebration of pure abstraction, while others interpret it as a manifestation of Kandinsky’s synesthetic experiences. Regardless of the interpretation, scholars acknowledge its profound impact on the development of abstract art and its enduring relevance in contemporary discourse.

Influence and Legacy:
“Yellow, Red, Blue 1925” continues to inspire artists and viewers alike, serving as a touchstone for the exploration of color, form, and meaning. Its influence extends beyond the realm of visual art, permeating literature, music, and philosophy. As a testament to Kandinsky’s visionary genius, the painting remains a beacon of artistic innovation and creative expression.

Conclusion:
Through a synthesis of historical context, formal analysis, symbolism, critical reception, and influence, this literature review has illuminated the rich tapestry of interpretations surrounding Kandinsky’s “Yellow, Red, Blue 1925.” As we continue to unravel its mysteries and contemplate its significance, the painting stands as a testament to the transformative power of abstract art and the enduring legacy of one of the leading pioneers.

Posted on

Exploring the Mesmerizing Artistry of Nan Goldin

Nan Goldin, an American photographer renowned for her intimate and raw portrayal of human relationships, has left an indelible mark on contemporary art. Through her lens, she captures the complexities of love, pain, joy, and vulnerability with a haunting authenticity that resonates deeply with viewers. Let’s delve into the artistry of Nan Goldin, exploring some of her most iconic works and the profound impact they’ve had on the art world.

1. “The Ballad of Sexual Dependency”

Perhaps Goldin’s most famous body of work, “The Ballad of Sexual Dependency,” is a visual diary chronicling her life and the lives of her friends in New York City during the late 1970s and 1980s. Through gritty snapshots and candid portraits, Goldin captures moments of intimacy, ecstasy, and despair amidst the backdrop of a city plagued by the AIDS epidemic and social upheaval.

One of the defining features of Goldin’s work is her unflinching honesty. She doesn’t shy away from depicting the darker aspects of human existence, including drug addiction, domestic violence, and death. Yet, amidst the chaos and turmoil, there’s a sense of profound empathy that runs through her photographs, inviting viewers to connect with the subjects on a deeply emotional level.

2. “Nan and Brian in Bed”

One of Goldin’s most iconic images, “Nan and Brian in Bed,” is a hauntingly intimate portrait of the artist and her then-partner, Brian, lying entwined in bed. The photograph exudes a sense of vulnerability and tenderness, capturing a moment of quiet intimacy between two lovers. Yet, there’s also an undercurrent of melancholy, hinting at the fragility of human connection and the fleeting nature of love.

3. “Misty and Jimmy Paulette in a Taxi, NYC”

Misty and Jimmy Paulette in a taxi, NYC 1991 Nan Goldin born 1953 Purchased 1997 http://www.tate.org.uk/art/work/P78046

In this captivating photograph, Goldin immortalizes a fleeting moment shared between Misty and Jimmy Paulette, two of her close friends, as they ride in a taxi through the streets of New York City. The image is suffused with a sense of nostalgia, evoking the transient beauty of urban life and the bittersweet passage of time.

Goldin’s use of color and composition adds to the emotional resonance of the photograph, with the soft glow of streetlights casting a warm, ethereal hue over the scene. Through her lens, she captures not just the physical landscape of the city, but also the emotional landscapes of those who inhabit it, inviting viewers to contemplate the complexities of human experience.

4. “Self-Portrait in Kimono with Brian, NYC”

Nan Goldin, Self-Portrait in Kimono with Brian, NYC, 1983; Cibachrome print, 27 x 39 3/4 in.; National Museum of Women in the Arts, Promised gift of Steven Scott, Baltimore, in honor of the National Museum of Women in the Arts Tenth Anniversary; © Nan Goldin, Courtesy Matthew Marks Gallery

In this arresting self-portrait, Goldin presents herself adorned in a vibrant kimono, standing alongside her partner Brian. The image is a testament to Goldin’s fearless exploration of identity and self-expression, as well as her willingness to confront societal norms and expectations.

Through her art, Goldin challenges conventional notions of beauty and femininity, celebrating the diversity of human experience in all its forms. Her self-portraits, in particular, offer a glimpse into her own journey of self-discovery and self-acceptance, inviting viewers to reflect on their own perceptions of identity and belonging.

Conclusion

Nan Goldin’s art is a powerful testament to the beauty and complexity of the human experience. Through her raw and unfiltered portrayals of love, loss, and longing, she invites viewers to confront their own vulnerabilities and to embrace the full spectrum of human emotions. In a world often characterized by superficiality and pretense, Goldin’s work serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring power of authenticity and connection. As we gaze upon her photographs, we are reminded of our shared humanity and the universal desire for love, acceptance, and understanding.

Posted on

Interesting aspects to controlling illegal streaming by invoking the UK Fraud Act 2006

Many news reports have appeared recently, suggesting watching illegal content (sports, films, etc., could result in criminal investigation and subsequent penalty if found guilty. The following investigates this premise!

The Fraud Act 2006 plays a role in controlling illegal streaming of copyright material by targeting the fraudulent behavior associated with such activities. While the act itself does not explicitly mention illegal streaming of copyrighted material, certain provisions within the act can be applied to combat this type of activity. Here’s how the Fraud Act 2006 assists in controlling illegal streaming of copyright material:

  1. Section 2: Fraud by False Representation: This section makes it an offense to make false representations with the intent to cause a loss to another party or to gain something for oneself. In the context of illegal streaming, individuals or entities may misrepresent themselves or their services to users, leading them to believe that they have legitimate access to copyrighted content. By doing so, they deceive users and potentially cause financial losses to copyright owners.
  2. Section 3: Fraud by Failing to Disclose Information: This section deals with cases where individuals or entities fail to disclose information they are under a legal duty to disclose, with the intent to cause a loss to another party or to gain something for themselves. In the context of illegal streaming, this could apply to cases where streaming platforms or service providers withhold information about the illegality of their activities or the unauthorized nature of the content they offer.
  3. Section 4: Fraud by Abuse of Position: This section addresses situations where individuals occupy positions of trust or responsibility and abuse that position to cause a loss to another party or to gain something for themselves. In the context of illegal streaming, this could apply to cases where employees or insiders within legitimate businesses use their access to systems or networks to facilitate illegal streaming activities or to profit from copyright infringement.

While the Fraud Act 2006 provides a legal framework to address fraudulent behavior associated with illegal streaming of copyright material, it is important to note that other laws and regulations, such as copyright laws and telecommunications regulations, also play a significant role in combating this type of activity. Enforcement agencies, rights holders, and internet service providers often work together to identify and take action against individuals and entities involved in illegal streaming operations, utilizing a combination of legal measures and technological solutions.

What about individual watching illegally streamed sports, etc?

The Fraud Act 2006 primarily addresses fraudulent behavior rather than the actions of individuals who may watch content for free through illegal means. Simply watching content for free, without actively engaging in fraudulent activities such as misrepresentation or deception, would not typically fall under the purview of the Fraud Act 2006.

Instead, the responsibility for enforcing laws related to copyright infringement generally falls on rights holders, law enforcement agencies, and internet service providers. Copyright laws establish the legal framework for protecting intellectual property, including audiovisual content, and provide avenues for rights holders to pursue legal action against those who engage in unauthorized distribution or consumption of copyrighted material.

In the context of illegal streaming, it is typically the individuals or entities who facilitate the unauthorized distribution of copyrighted content—such as operators of illegal streaming websites or services—that may be targeted under laws related to copyright infringement, rather than the individuals who passively consume the content.

However, it’s important to note that while simply watching content for free may not be considered a criminal offense under the Fraud Act 2006, it still constitutes copyright infringement and may carry civil penalties, including fines or injunctions, if pursued by rights holders. Additionally, internet users should be aware of the potential risks associated with accessing copyrighted material through unauthorized sources, such as exposure to malware, viruses, or other security threats.

Watching illegal content itself typically does not constitute a criminal offense. However, the act of accessing or streaming copyrighted material without proper authorization can be considered copyright infringement, which is a civil offense rather than a criminal one.

In most jurisdictions, copyright infringement occurs when someone reproduces, distributes, performs, or displays copyrighted material without permission from the copyright owner. This includes downloading or streaming movies, music, TV shows, or other content from unauthorized sources such as torrent sites, illegal streaming platforms, or file-sharing networks.

While watching illegal content may not directly violate copyright laws, the act of accessing or streaming copyrighted material without authorization indirectly supports the dissemination of pirated content, contributing to the infringement of intellectual property rights. As a result, individuals who knowingly access or stream copyrighted material from unauthorized sources may be subject to legal action by rights holders, such as civil lawsuits seeking damages for copyright infringement.

It’s important for individuals to be aware of the legal implications of accessing copyrighted material from unauthorized sources and to seek legitimate means of accessing content, such as through licensed streaming services, rental platforms, or purchasing content from authorized distributors.

Posted on

Amedeo Modigliani: The Artistic Legacy of a Modernist Visionary

Madame Pompadour, 1914, oil on on canvas, Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago, IL, US

Abstract: Amedeo Modigliani, an Italian artist of the early 20th century, remains a towering figure in the annals of modern art. His distinctive style, characterized by elongated figures, simplified forms, and a sense of timeless elegance, has captivated art enthusiasts and scholars alike. This paper explores Modigliani’s life, artistic influences, and enduring legacy, examining the unique contributions he made to the modernist movement.

The Modigliani Style: One of the most striking aspects of Modigliani’s art is his distinctive style, characterized by elongated figures, almond-shaped eyes, and sensuous curves. His portraits, rendered with a bold simplicity and a keen sense of line, exude a timeless elegance and emotional depth. Modigliani’s use of color, often muted and subtle, adds to the enigmatic allure of his compositions.

Portraiture and the Human Psyche: Central to Modigliani’s oeuvre is his fascination with the human face and form. His portraits, whether of friends, lovers, or anonymous sitters, offer glimpses into the inner lives of his subjects. Through subtle gestures and expressions, Modigliani captures the essence of his sitters, revealing their vulnerabilities, desires, and complexities.

Reclining Nude 1919. Museum of Modern Art, New York

Legacy and Influence: Although Modigliani’s career was cut short by his untimely death at the age of 35, his impact on the art world was profound and enduring. His influence can be seen in the works of later artists, from figurative painters to abstract expressionists. Modigliani’s ability to distill the essence of the human experience into timeless works of art ensures his place among the pantheon of modernist visionaries.

Conclusion: Amedeo Modigliani’s legacy endures as a testament to the power of artistic vision and creative expression. Through his distinctive style and evocative portraits, he captured the spirit of a tumultuous era while transcending the boundaries of time and place. As we continue to study and appreciate his art, we are reminded of the enduring power of beauty, empathy, and the human spirit.

Posted on

Gustav Klimt painting rediscovered after 100 years!

In a remarkable twist of fate, a long-lost painting by the iconic Austrian artist Gustav Klimt has been rediscovered after more than a century. The painting, ‘Portrait of Fraulein Lieser’, found in Vienna, has reignited interest in Klimt’s extraordinary body of work.

Gustav Klimt, known for his distinctive style characterized by intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and sensual themes, was a leading figure of the Vienna Secession movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. His works, celebrated for their symbolism and decorative allure, have captivated audiences around the world for generations.

The rediscovery of this lost masterpiece adds another chapter to Klimt’s legacy and offers art enthusiasts a rare opportunity to witness a previously unseen creation by the maestro himself. Scholars and experts are eagerly studying the painting to authenticate its provenance and unravel the mysteries surrounding its disappearance and reappearance.

The significance of this discovery extends beyond the art world, offering a glimpse into the cultural heritage and history of the era in which Klimt lived and worked. The painting’s journey from obscurity to rediscovery serves as a reminder of the enduring allure of art and the stories it carries through time.

As the world celebrates the rediscovery of this long-lost Klimt painting, it serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring legacy of one of the most influential artists of the modern era. With each stroke of his brush, Klimt left an indelible mark on the art world, and this rediscovered masterpiece is yet another testament to his enduring genius.

Posted on

Florence Cathedral: A Timeless Marvel of Art and Architecture

Florence cathedral(Duomo)

Introduction: Nestled in the heart of Florence, Italy, the Florence Cathedral, also known as the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, stands as a testament to the city’s rich history, architectural prowess, and artistic splendor. In this post, we’ll explore the magnificence of the cathedral, its iconic artworks, and practical details for planning an enriching visit.

History and Architecture: Built over several centuries, with construction commencing in 1296, the Florence Cathedral is a masterpiece of Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Its stunning dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is an engineering marvel and remains the largest brick dome ever constructed. The intricate façade, adorned with polychrome marble panels, showcases the craftsmanship of generations.

Artistic Treasures Inside: 1. The Last Judgment by Giorgio Vasari:

Ceiling Mural, Georgio Vasari, 1572 and completed by Zuccari 1579

Adorning the interior of the dome, this fresco depicts the final judgment and is a testament to Vasari’s mastery of composition and storytelling.

2. The Baptistry Doors (Gates of Paradise) by Lorenzo Ghiberti:

Baptistry showing Ghiberti’s doors (copies). Originals in museum.

Located on the Baptistery adjacent to the cathedral, these bronze doors are a Renaissance masterpiece, showcasing scenes from the Old Testament with exquisite detail.

3. The Duomo Museum:

Michelangelo’s Deposition (incorrectly known as the Florence Pieta)

Housing original sculptures from the cathedral, the museum offers insights into the art and history of the Florence Cathedral. Visitors can marvel at Michelangelo’s unfinished Pietà and other precious artifacts.

Opening Times:

  • Cathedral: Daily from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
  • Dome: Daily from 8:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
  • Baptistery: Daily from 8:15 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. and 11:15 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
  • The Duomo Museum: Daily from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (closed on the first Tuesday of each month)

Planning Your Visit: To make the most of your visit to the Florence Cathedral, consider purchasing a combined ticket that grants access to the cathedral, dome, baptistery, and museum. Be mindful of dress codes, as visitors are expected to dress modestly when entering religious sites. Climbing to the top of the dome provides not only panoramic views of Florence but also a close-up look at the magnificent frescoes.

Experiencing Florence’s Cathedral: Wandering through the grandeur of the Florence Cathedral is a journey through time and artistic innovation. As you marvel at the architectural details, gaze upon masterpieces, and absorb the ambiance of this sacred space, you’ll find yourself immersed in the rich cultural tapestry of Florence. Advance tickets are recommended. Queues can be long especially in summer months and at weekends.

Conclusion: The Florence Cathedral stands as a beacon of art, culture, and spirituality. From its awe-inspiring architecture to the masterpieces housed within, a visit to this iconic landmark promises an enriching experience for art enthusiasts and history lovers alike. Plan your visit thoughtfully, and let the Florence Cathedral unfold its tales of centuries past before your eyes.

Posted on

Exploring the Timeless Treasures: A Guide to the Louvre Museum in Paris

Napoleon courtyard of the Louvre museum at night time, with Ieoh Ming Pei’s pyramid in the middle.

History and Architecture: Originally a royal palace, the Louvre’s history dates back to the late 12th century. It evolved over the centuries, undergoing expansions and renovations, eventually transforming into the magnificent museum we see today. The iconic glass pyramid, a modern addition, serves as the main entrance and a symbol of the Louvre’s fusion of classical and contemporary elements.Artistic Marvels: Home to an unparalleled collection of art, the Louvre boasts works from diverse cultures and periods. From the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa to the majestic beauty of the Winged Victory of Samothrace, every corner of the museum holds a cultural treasure waiting to be discovered. Visitors can explore Egyptian antiquities, classical sculptures, European paintings, and much more.Practical Information: Location: The Louvre is situated on the right bank of the Seine River in the 1st arrondissement of Paris. The exact address is Rue de Rivoli, 75001 Paris, France.Opening Times:

  • Monday, Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.Wednesday and Friday: 9 a.m. to 9:45 p.m.The Louvre is closed on Tuesdays.

Planning Your Visit: Given the vastness of the Louvre’s collection, planning your visit is essential. Consider focusing on specific sections or artworks that interest you the most. The museum provides interactive maps and guided tours, enhancing the visitor experience. Additionally, purchasing tickets online in advance can help skip long entry lines.Special Exhibitions and Events: The Louvre regularly hosts special exhibitions and events, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore thematic displays or discover new perspectives on familiar artworks. Check the museum’s official website for information on current and upcoming exhibitions during your visit.Conclusion: A visit to the Louvre Museum is a journey through the annals of human creativity and expression. Whether you’re an art enthusiast or a casual admirer, the Louvre offers an immersive experience that transcends time and borders. Explore its corridors, witness the beauty of centuries-old masterpieces, and let the Louvre’s cultural richness captivate your senses. Plan your visit wisely, and you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where art becomes a timeless companion.