PRAYERS FOR RAIN

"Prayers for Rain" (7-28-09 4466v2g) was just morphed from one of my oldest pic morphs. (It's one of four I made this morning of the same original pic's heavily edited version.) I have mixed feelings about it. Or rather, I like it rather unreservedly (especially given my usual pickiness when it comes to my efforts). But I'm concerned with how much it resembles Native American Indian art -- specifically Eskimo art I remember seeing somewhere over the years. (And by years I mean decades. Because although I've only been doing photography for about 8-1/2 years, I've been drawing and painting since I could hold a pen or pencil or paint brush, and closely observing all sorts of art along the way.) I did not seek to imitate Indian art; it just popped on my screen as I was trying out different things in Photoshop. Of course, it may not resemble Indian art all that much; that may just be what I see in it. But it's still a question: am I stealing, or is imitation -- even unintended -- truly the sincerest form of flattery? All this put more simply: my fear of having my work called derivative runs deep and, worse, of it being seen to be disrespectful of another culture.

NOTE: In most browsers you can click on a photo to view a larger version. There are many more photos posted here than show at any given time on scrolling down. See the Archives listing in the right hand column (below “Previous Posts”). And here’s the link if you wish to read an Introduction, Background, & Technical Aspects post about this blog.

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‘til next take, may you enjoy life in the ever changing light,

[aka: Patricia Kelly] **** Patricia’s dreams & poetry blog; and if you wish to copy or use any of my writing or photos, please email me for permission (under “View my complete profile”) ****