Artist: Angie McMonigal

Characteristics;
McMonigal uses a lot of perspective and shadow in her photos to create an abstract composition. She also uses lighting and framing to her advantage to make an object look like something else, which can be seen especially in the stairwell photo as it sort of looks like a lotus flower, when in actuality it’s just a staircase. McMonigal also uses a lot of existing structures, with the only thing she changes being how she positions herself and the lighting. I have chosen Mcmonigal as I really like her photos and hope to emulate them and their uniqueness. As well as they just seem incredibly clean and precise.

“-to create something that defines their work, something that allows a feeling of accomplishment and portrays a piece of themselves and how they see the world.” A quote, that i think i can relate to and really admire.

Photo Evaluation:

I chose this image to evaluate as I really liked the way McMonigal framed the building to seem like it’s leaning over the camera, adding an intimidating effect that is backed up by the clouded sun (I think) in the background being covered by its size. As well as the decision to make the photo black and white really caught my eyes.

The most important formal element of art in my opinion is the composition itself. The placement of the building, the framing and angle the photo was taken at. As well as the focus, the sharpness, and the black and white filter. There is also a sense of balance as the building is placed quite evenly in the middle and the sun in the background is as well. All of these culminate to create a powerful and imposing image that really catches the eye. These photos are pretty abstract as they use simple buildings and transform them by altering the composition into something that looks completely different. With some of the photos being up to interpretation as well. I don’t think it has the most “meaning” but it definitely makes people think.

My favorite part about McMonigal’s style is the framing. The buildings are always posed in such an aesthetically pleasing way that I just want to keep looking at her photos. More and more enamored by the direction her photos go in. I also hope to incorporate this into my work by using her idea of framing and changing the angle rather than the subject. As well as possibly making some photos black and white, all whilst making sure every photo is focused and looks sharp.

Revised Statement of Intent:

The beauty of Angles

My vision is to mainly use different angles and perspectives in my photos to capture the audience. I will attempt to take photos in the style of McMonigal and emulate her work which incorporates a variety of perspectives, angles, and framing to create a sense of abstractness to her photos.