Instructions
Read through the following activities carefully. These exercises are designed to explore the world of instant photography, art history, and the delicate beauty of birds, inspired by the work of artists like Paolo Roversi. Answer each section to the best of your ability.
Part 1: The Saturated Light of a Polaroid
The photographer Paolo Roversi, in his book 'Des Oiseaux' (About Birds), captures birds in a unique way. His images on Polaroid film often appear "drenched in saturated light." This means the colours are incredibly rich, deep, and intense, and the light seems to soak into the entire picture, creating a dreamy, painterly effect. This is very different from a standard, sharp digital photo.
- In your own words, what is the difference between a photograph taken on instant film (like a Polaroid) and a photograph taken with a smartphone? Think about the process and the final object.
- Why do you think an artist might choose the "painterly" and sometimes unpredictable results of a Polaroid to photograph wildlife, instead of a perfectly clear digital image?
Part 2: Planning Your Wildlife Portrait
Imagine you have been given a Polaroid camera and a pack of instant film. Your assignment is to create one perfect, artistic portrait of a bird. Plan your photograph in the table below, keeping the idea of "saturated light" and a "painterly" mood in mind.
| Planning Element | Your Artistic Plan |
|---|---|
| Subject: What kind of bird will you photograph? (e.g., a common sparrow, a colourful parrot, a majestic owl) |
|
| Setting: Where will the bird be? (e.g., against a dark, simple background; amongst bright flowers; on a stark branch) |
|
| Lighting: How will you achieve that "drenched in saturated light" look? (e.g., shooting at sunrise/sunset; using coloured lights; placing the bird near a brightly lit window) |
|
| Feeling: What mood or feeling do you want to convey? (e.g., mystery, fragility, vibrant energy, quiet contemplation) |
Part 3: From Scientific Plate to Painterly Print
Before photography, scientists and artists created detailed illustrations of animals and plants called 'natural history plates'. Their main goal was scientific accuracy. Compare this older tradition with the modern, artistic approach to wildlife photography we've discussed. Match the historical purpose with the modern artistic intention below.
- A. Natural History Plate (c. 1800s)
- B. Modern Artistic Polaroid (c. 2020s)
Write the correct letter (A or B) next to each description.
- ____ To scientifically catalogue a species, showing its precise markings, feather structure, and anatomy for identification.
- ____ To evoke an emotional response and capture the essence or spirit of the subject, rather than perfect detail.
- ____ Values clarity, accuracy, and objective information above all else.
- ____ Values mood, colour, light, and subjective interpretation; imperfections can be part of the art.
Part 4: The Care and Keeping of a Photograph
A Polaroid is a physical object, a one-of-a-kind chemical reaction captured on film. Unlike a digital file, it can be damaged by the environment. Proper care is essential for its preservation. Fill in the blanks below using the words from the word bank.
Word Bank: UV, archival, fingerprints, cool, acid-free, dark
To preserve a delicate Polaroid photograph, one must treat it with great care. It is imperative to shield it from direct sunlight, as the strong 1. _______________ rays will cause the vibrant colours to fade most lamentably. When handling the print, one should avoid touching the surface, as oils from 2. _______________ can cause permanent damage. For its long-term repose, the photograph ought to be kept in a 3. _______________, dry, and 4. _______________ place. The most prudent method of storage is within special 5. _______________ boxes, which are constructed from 6. _______________ materials that prevent chemical decay over the years.
A Lady's & Gentleman's Guide to the Assessment of One's Artistic Accomplishments
Being an Analytic Rubric for the Scoring of Visual Arts Endeavours, suitable for the Eighth to the Twelfth Year Levels, and composed in a manner befitting a person of sense and sensibility.
| Criterion of Judgement | A Most Accomplished Endeavour (Exhibits an Advanced Degree of Refinement) |
A Worthy Attempt (Demonstrates Sound Understanding) |
Requires Further Diligence (Shows a Nascent Grasp of Principles) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Conceptual Acuity & Sensibility The quality and perception of the artist's guiding idea. |
The artist's intention is communicated with a most discerning clarity and depth. The work displays a profound connection to its inspirations, navigating complex themes with a sensibility that is both intelligent and affecting. | A commendable theme is present and articulated with adequate propriety. The work reflects its stated influences, though perhaps without the deeper nuance that distinguishes a truly masterful composition. | The central idea wants for focus and is conveyed with a degree of ambiguity. The connection to historical or contemporary masters is but faintly sketched and requires more thorough consideration. |
| Technical Propriety & Material Command The skill with which the chosen media are employed. |
A complete mastery of the chosen medium is evident. Techniques are executed with precision and a confidence that allows for purposeful, painterly exploration. The material, be it film or pigment, is made to serve the artist's vision perfectly. | The artist demonstrates a respectable command of their tools and techniques. The execution is competent and generally supports the overall composition, though minor inconsistencies may betray a hand still acquiring its full grace. | The artist's command of the medium is as yet uncertain. The handling of the materials appears hesitant, and technical difficulties at times obstruct the communication of the intended artistic sentiment. |
| Aesthetic Judgement & Compositional Harmony The arrangement of elements and the appeal to the eye. |
The composition is arranged with an unimpeachable sense of balance, harmony, and visual intrigue. Elements such as light, colour, and form are orchestrated in a manner that is at once dynamic and exquisitely resolved. It is a true delight to the senses. | The principles of composition are well understood and applied to create a pleasing and orderly arrangement. The aesthetic choices are agreeable and suitable, forming a whole that is without significant fault. | The arrangement of the composition lacks a certain cohesion. Elements appear to be placed without due consideration for their relation to one another, and the overall effect does not yet achieve a state of pleasing harmony. |
| Discernment of Influence & Context The understanding of art's place in the wider world, past and present. |
With great perspicacity, the artist analyses the lineage from early natural history to contemporary works. Their own creation is situated within this context with an intelligence that speaks of extensive reading and contemplation. | The artist makes a creditable connection between their work and its relevant artistic context. They show an acquaintance with the subject, though their analysis may not yet possess the depth of a true scholar. | A general awareness of context is present, but the connections made are of a superficial character. A more dedicated study of the relevant history and theory is heartily recommended. |
Answer Key
Part 1: The Saturated Light of a Polaroid
- (Answers will vary, but should include points like): An instant film photograph is a unique physical object created through a chemical process, while a smartphone photo is a digital file that can be endlessly duplicated. The Polaroid process is immediate and tangible, while the digital process is editable and less permanent in a physical sense.
- (Answers will vary, but should include points like): An artist might choose a Polaroid to create a unique mood or feeling that a perfect digital image cannot. The soft focus, intense colours, and unpredictable nature of the film can make the subject seem more mysterious, dreamlike, or emotional. It focuses on art over pure documentation.
Part 2: Planning Your Wildlife Portrait
Answers are subjective and based on the student's creativity. The goal is to see thoughtful consideration of each element in creating an artistic image.
Part 3: From Scientific Plate to Painterly Print
- A
- B
- A
- B
Part 4: The Care and Keeping of a Photograph
- UV
- fingerprints
- cool
- dark
- archival
- acid-free