II. The Lantern Bearer II

"The Lantern Bearer II" takes viewers on a mesmerizing visual journey where light and shadow dance in delicate harmony. This series, shot in the deep twilight hours, features a solitary figure standing on the tranquil surface of a lake, a lantern in hand. The long exposure captures the flame's movement, creating a soft, haunting glow that echoes through the still waters. The flame, sometimes bright and strong, occasionally faint and flickering, reflects the fragile nature of time and memory.

In some photos, the lantern's flame burns fiercely, casting intense shadows on the water’s surface and bringing the surrounding darkness to life. In others, the flame is little more than a soft glimmer, barely clinging to existence as night tightens its grip. The contrast between these moments echoes the lines of Robert Frost’s poem, “The woods are lovely, dark and deep, but I have promises to keep and miles to go before I sleep.” The faraway city lights offer a distant reminder of the world beyond, but the figure’s focus remains on the fragile flame.

This collection combines vivid flame colors with sepia tones, tarnished textures, and a touch of silver-black contrast, creating a timeless and fleeting mood. The figure standing in solitude reminds us of the philosopher Nietzsche’s words: “One must still have chaos in oneself to be able to give birth to a dancing star.” In "The Lantern Bearer II," the flame becomes a symbol of inner light, dancing against the darkness of the world around it.