Sunday, January 28, 2007

A Landscape at Three Different Times in One Day





At mid-day this small building, containing electrical equipment, stands like a miniature castle in a public park. For the most part it is very well illuminated, however the sun's angle causes the facade to remain in shadow. The quality of light is very crisp, since this is the brightest time of day. Snow on the ground reflects sunshine, but because it's melting, most objects appear to have a wet sheen. The space is inhabited by geese and ducks that live in the reeds nearby, and walkers strolling through the park. There is moderate vehicular activity on this street, with a few cars passing every minute.

At sundown the park grows dark, but a timed light on the building keeps the entrance illuminated. There are too many trees and large buildings in the area for the sunset's orange glow to reach the park, but streetlights keep the surrounding area lit with a blue fluorescence. At this time of day, no one is in the park. The only signs of activity are cars going down the street, and the occasional jogger running by.

Once the sun has set, the park is pitch black. The main part of the building is almost completely in shadow except for the light above the entrance, which illuminates the short path leading up to it. Another timed light towards its rear illuminates that section. Streetlights cast a glow over the street where mainly taxicabs roam. Hardly any human activity is seen.

The most interesting time to view this area has proven to be mid-day, when there are people and animals inhabiting the park. I would describe the area to a blind person as a place of activity. Even without sight, one can sense the goings-on. The sounds-- people strolling and talking, geese honking, wind blowing, cars speeding by--as well as the wet sensation of the melting snow, all contribute to a feeling of activity made evident through the passage of time.

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