Dialogue of the Lamps

The word "photography" is derived from Greek. It means "to paint with light". The Chinese word has a slightly different and more profound meaning: "to capture light and paint the shadow". When there is light, there is shadow, but the Chinese definition places emphasis on "shadow", not only on "light". The motive is more evocative, highlighting a different vision within the Chinese language.

When I first came into contact with photography, I did not think about the meaning of these two words, nor did I pay much attention to them. It was only one day, after reading an article, that I began to understand their meaning seriously. The meaning of the word photography lingered in my mind for several days. So I decided to create a scene that could literally show the meaning of "painting with light".

Photography

I pondered for some time what props I should use for the work. Suddenly, I remembered the small kerosene lamp my grandfather used when I was a child. I remembered that it had a very beautiful shape, and that the light it emitted was full of charm. It was perfect for my subject. Having made up my mind, I immediately searched for this kerosene lamp. Unfortunately, I searched everywhere and could not find it. This kind of kerosene lamp seemed to have disappeared. It was nowhere to be found. No wonder. After all, it is now the twenty-first century. Who cares about these kerosene lamps? With great difficulty, I finally found one in a store that specialized in rare products. I bought a pair immediately.

“Two ordinary oil lamps turned into magic when they were lit, from 'nothing' to 'something'.”

At night, I filled them with kerosene, replaced the wicks, lit them, and hung them on the wall. At once, a charming pattern appeared before my eyes. The light diffused from the two lamps and reflected against each other, emitting a beam that was pleasing to the eye. It cut through the darkness, painting a striking pattern on the wall. Everything was so natural, not the least bit pretentious.

Two ordinary oil lamps turned into magic when they were lit, from 'nothing' to 'something'. Photography allows me to see the possibilities in different things, and gives me a deeper sense and experience of art.