Steeples

“People who fit don’t seek. The seekers are those that don’t fit.”
― Shannon L. Alder

It can begin with something simple, like this 2016 photo of a small teal-colored church. It was situated in a remote location and appeared almost abandoned, yet I suspect being used. I have paused to look at this photo numerous times while browsing my archives, but I have never been sure how to use it or that I could do it justice.

I wanted to explore its appeal to me and uncover its potential. Now that I’m retired and have some free time, combined with spring allergies that keep me indoors this time of year, I decided to delve into it. To my surprise, it took me in directions I hadn’t anticipated.

Initially, I focused on realistic contemporary cinematic landscapes, capturing the essence of a small wooden church painted teal. I experimented with altering the positioning, design, and lighting of the surroundings.

Contemporary Cinematic Landscape Art, Morning and Evening

Then, looking at what was once one image but is now three, the window designs led my thoughts down a gothic path, which, for me, often evokes dark colors and an overall sense of mystery. In response to this dark gothic theme, I imagined a night scene with the church’s gothic windows illuminated, perhaps evoking both a sense of refuge and mystery. I also switched from wood to stone as the building material, as stone seems to better fit the Gothic theme.

Dark Gothic Digital Art

By this time, my imagination was roaming freely, and the connection to the original photo was being stretched to the breaking point. It seemed only a small step from gothic mystery to the realm of fantasy.

Fantasy Gothic Digital Painting

Still, I haven’t found a core reason for the original church photo’s emotional appeal, but perhaps my exploration isn’t finished.

So, if you were to say where I was last week, you might say I was at church!