Competition: The Print vs The Photograph in Japan

Today John, Janet, Beverly, and I went to the Sackler Gallery to see two Japanese exhibits interestingly juxtaposed.

The Japanese Print reigned supreme for quite a while until The Photograph appeared on the scene and gave the Print a run for its money.

The Print was not stupid, however, and was aware of two of its qualities unknown to The Photograph. The Print had access to color. The Print could also display nocturnal scenes. So the Battle was on. The Print added more color and displayed more scenes in the darkness of night.

The Photograph, however, was smart, too. It was particularly good at showing human figures.

Here are some examples for each of the adversaries.

PRINTS

 

PHOTOGRAPHS

 

              Traditional Raincoat                                  Children Singing in a Snow Cave

I personally feel that there is room in the world for both The Print and The Photograph.

After viewing the works in these two Japanese rooms, we went over to the Freer to admire Whistler's Peacock Room. Remember, however, to return on the Third Thursday of each month to see the room in natural light when the window of time and space is opened.

The Enchanting Entrance: "Terminal," an installation by Indian Subodh Gupta 

Christine and Janet in a forest of spires

Here we see towers of brass containers of different heights, ranging from one to fifteen feet tall, connected by an intricate web of thread. These spires bring to mind the architectural features that one sees on the tops of religious structures such as temples, churches, and mosques.

After leaving the museum, we returned to Springfield and had soup and sandwiches at Potbelly in Springfield Plaza.

              Janet, Beverly, Christine, and John

A wonderful outing on a holiday! The only flaw was the absence of our friend George who was unfortunately home ill. Get well soon, George!

 Beverly

 Christine