A combination of several images to convey a feeling of sadness and loss, possibly for a sailor or other loved one. The ship on the horizon is a steamship that plies between Ilfracombe and Bideford (on the North Devon coast) and Lundy Island. The seagulls are made up of a repeat of four I photographed, angled and sized to make a disappearing flock??” possibly off to follow the ship. The figure is a young woman who sat for me, but I have replaced her face with that of a doll. The doll’s face has just the stare I wanted and adds a bit of strangeness. I have always been fascinated by dolls and mannequins as metaphors for humans. I have added various textures to achieve an effect that pleased me. There is always an element of experimentation when making an image like this.
4 comments posted
Joan Field
Robin,, Yo have done a lot of work on this image and, I believe, you have achieved your goal. The doll]s face takes one aback initially, but it makes sense in the concept of the image. The use of sepia gives it a long-ago look, This is beautifully put together. I feel the birds work well here and making the background dark behind the model really makes her stand outThere's a real feeling of nostalgia her that you have caught with your hard work. Posted: 07/05/2025 23:30:45
Karen Botvin
I believe you accomplished your goal, Robin. The doll has a far off stare… a look of loss. My only comment has to do with the perspective size of the ship relative to the doll. But it is a creation and very well composed. Posted: 07/06/2025 17:52:27
Ian Ledgard
What a haunted look on the face of the doll. You have brought the various elements together very well. There is a story there for us to deduce for ourseves. I am asking why is the doll looking at us and not at the seascape? Very thought provoking. Posted: 07/10/2025 11:03:07
Bob Wills
Hi Robin. Perfection is in the eye of the beholder.
Behold-Perfection!
Nothing better than a story told well. Posted: 07/14/2025 21:55:01
