- Steven Edson
- Sheep, 1987
- Archival pigment print
- 20 x 30 x 0.1 in (50.8 x 76.2 x 0.25 cm)
- Framed: 28 x 38 x 1 in (71.12 x 96.52 x 2.54 cm)
- Signature: Artist signature hand signed in pencil on the front border in the lower right corner. Print number and edition size located in the lower left border on the front of print.
In this photograph of the New Zealand landscape, Steve Edson has captured a rural scene where a large flock of sheep densely populates a road, stretching into the distance and flanked by greenery on either side. The sheep at the front are in focus and looking towards the camera, giving a sense of immediacy and connection. Overcast skies and soft, diffuse light imbue the scene with a moody, serene ambiance. The road provides a strong linear perspective, guiding the viewer's eye through the sea of woolly creatures towards the horizon.
The choice of sheep as both subject and medium in this photograph has created a compelling narrative. The sheer number of subjects commands attention and, possibly, reflects on themes of conformity, unity, or the pastoral life. The focus on the front sheep offers a pleasant contrast to the blurry multitude, indicating the value of the individual amidst the collective. Indeed, every sheep has its own expression, adding personality to the work.
The soft lighting is deftly captured, avoiding harsh shadows and allowing for subtle variations in tone and texture to be appreciated. This has a tranquil, calming effect, which is reinforced by the natural landscape and the simplicity of the composition. The photograph's strength lies in its ability to transport viewers to this moment in time, offering a slice of life from the sheep's perspective.
- Subject Matter: Landscape with Flock of Sheep