Jayne Arksey: Assignment 2 – Photographing the Unseen

Balance

For this project, I have chosen to represent balance. Balance as a concept is in itself unseen and therefore un-photographable, yet the effects of balance can be quite visible in many ways.

My models, Helena and Lisa provide monthly acro-yoga workshops, a form of acrobatic yoga in which one person creates poses and transitions while balanced on top of the other; this provides the initial definition of balance used for my project. I have also aimed to create physical balance in my images using elements of design such as symmetry and creating a balanced colour palette. The main colours in the images are the contrasting secondary hues of green and violet with accents of orange in Lisa’s hair.

To achieve balance:

Preparation and communication

A solid core

Strength and trust in equal measure

Balancing work and family life as their sons take a walk in the park.

Off balance

Yoga is a holistic activity, which aides to balance the body, mind and soul; in order to balance physically one must first balance the mind. In acro-yoga, this is essential due to the acrobatic nature of the poses. I have aimed to emphasise the mental and emotional balance in my images. I attend Helena’s Hatha yoga classes weekly and for me personally, these benefits far outweigh the physical. Each week, I leave the class feeling calm, strong and centred and felt it vital to show this side of the practise in my images.

The ‘Gyan Mudra’ hand gesture directs and balances the flow of energy in the body.

While photographing the girls, I also noticed that the balance of power in the relationship was vital. Working in such precarious positions requires a high level of trust, mutual respect and communication. After practising some new poses and transitions, the girls finished with a familiar routine in which they didn’t speak at all, but worked together depending on trust and harmonised breathing. It was beautiful to watch, I hope I have portrayed some of that beauty in my images.