The Greek roots of the word photography translate as "writing with light." Welcome to my studio--a place to practice and illuminate good work using writing and photography.

Thursday, January 5, 2017

The seductive amaryllis


Greek mythology brings us the story of Amaryllis, a love-struck maiden who longed for the handsome but cold-hearted Alteo. Desperate to win his love, she pierced her heart with a golden arrow and then visited his cottage daily for 30 days, shedding drops of blood along the way. On the 30th day, beautiful scarlet flowers bloomed along the path. Alteo was enamored, Amaryllis' heart was healed, and holiday decor went wild.


In the contemporary world, alkaloids from Amaryllis (also known as Hippeastrum papilio or "naked lady") are used as in the treatment for Alzheimer's disease. Not just a pretty face.

From the artist's perspective, Amaryllis is dynamic, unfolding from tight-lipped caution to brilliant roar, during which time one cannot help but dog the light on a mother and daughter inching toward full bloom.



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