You, like me, would associate every place you have been to with some sights and sounds. I am back in Bengaluru enjoying the lovely weather we are blessed to have. Being fond of nature, I admire the trees and greenery near where we live. I find this relaxing especially with birds chirping in the trees and shrubs. ” If you truly love nature, you will find beauty everywhere” said Vincent van Gogh!
We recently visited the United States. In this trip we had the pleasure of spending a few days at The Sea Ranch, in Northern California. The waves of the Pacific Ocean pounding the beaches, coves and craggy cliffs is a sight to behold.
At The Sea Ranch, we were delighted to meet with Arun Patel, the renowned photographer. To know more about his brilliant work do check out his website : Arun Patel Studio . You can also follow him on Instagram.
When we met at the Sea Ranch Lodge, we heard first hand from him about his passion for photography. He described how he took to this highly interesting and challenging field. I can only imagine and admire the immense patience he must have while photographing.
His book, “Shanti” (which comes from a Sanskrit word for Peace, Calm, and Quiet) is a collector’s item for sure. The layout of the book is striking. There is little or no text. The pictures, printed on high quality paper, are crisp, clear, and speak for themselves. You can interpret them in your own way. Frankly, you lose all sense of time as you admire each of the pictures in the book.
All the pictures in ” Shanti” have one thing in common. They were shot by Arun in and around The Sea Ranch. They portray the many different aspects of this lovely place. The pictures range from the redwoods on the hills to the waters of the Pacific Coast. Some pictures have stayed in my mind. The mist swirling midst the tall redwood trees. The rays of sunshine illuminating a path in the woods. The cascade of spray as the waves meet the rocks on the coast. The weather beaten rocks themselves that have been through many a storm.
Interestingly, Arun shoots all his pictures in black and white. This choice stands out in today’s world. You will find most pictures are in colour perhaps thanks to modern technology.
The beautiful photographs in “Shanti” reminded me of this famous quote by Andri Magdalena Cauldwell. ” To see in colour is a delight for the eye, but to see in black and white is a delight for the soul. “
More power to you, Arun! I look forward with great interest to your future works.
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