Fine Art & Fine Art Photography

When thinking of the themes represented in the novel 'Oranges Are Not The Only Fruit', a section of the brief given to me by Dejan required me to find Fine Art and Fine Art Photography that related to the chosen character. I researched long and hard through books and sites to find the best pieces of work that I felt represented the most important themes of the book to me.

Cook Jenshel Photography

I came across Cook Jenshel whilst searching online. He captures atmosphere and feeling in his portraits and creates beautiful work. I love the use of black and white in the photography as the contrast of the light and dark is heightened through the use of greyscale. The centre of the photograph is an almost angelic figure, lit from the side to create an angelic focal point. The statue can be seen to foreshadow the strong religious upbringing Jess has. The reflection on the water shows that everything is not as it seems as everything is manipulated in the surface of the water. I feel that I can take inspiration from this as it can be used to show the darkness of the novel and the contrast in lighting can convey the struggle of Jess who has to battle her inner self.

 

 

Jane Fulton Photography

I was drawn to the peacefulness of Jane Fulton. The lighting is peaceful and can be seen as 'heavenly' and this series of photographs inspired me because they made me think about the journey that Jess goes through both physically and mentally. The beautiful, simple landscapes could reflect the simplicity with which Jess views life and the purity of her decisions and moral standings throughout the novel.

Hendrickje Stoffels (as the sorrowing virgin) by Rembrandt

1660

Oil on Canvas

 I chose this painting because of the symbol of the lone woman, the sorrowing virgin, and the meaning behind it. I felt that this could be compared to Jess at the beginning of the novel, the innocent, unfulfilled virgin who had no real life experience. The muted colour scheme of the painting could also be compared to the dull and dreary existence Jess has at the beginning of the novel, under her mothers' restraints.

The Birth of Venus by Sandro Boticelli
1482
Oil on Canvas

I chose this portrait because of the classical beauty it represents and the simple purity portrayed by Venus. Venus was the Roman goddess of love, fertility and beauty which are most certainly relevant to the themes represented by the character of Jess throughout the novel.


The Resurrected Christ by Rembrandt
1661
Oil on Canvas

I chose this portrait by Rembrandt because of the austere nature of the picture.The symbolism of Christ throughout the novel is so overwhelmingly prominent and so i felt that this was a perfect portrait to include. The darkness of the portrait can also be related to the darkness of the novel and the suffering that, like Jesus, Jess has to endure. She too is subjected to hatred and suffering but the whole time, her belief for Jesus never wavers.