This evocative photographic composition brings together an intriguing ensemble of tactile artifacts resting atop a weathered wooden stool. Photographed in New York City in 2002 as part of Michael James O'Brien's Still Life series, the artwork features a luminous crystal globe on a brass stand, a natural coral branch, a textured ceramic tumbler, and a towering metallic urn fading into deep shadows. Guided by Jean Baudrillard’s idea that objects evoke subjecthood through their irreducible absence, the piece masterfully captures subtle light reflections and atmospheric depth. Printed on museum-grade Hahnemühle fine art photo rag paper in a limited edition of 7 plus 2 artist proofs, this 36 x 24-inch print serves as a sophisticated meditation on form, memory, and stillness for fine art collections.
“So the object brings the subject to life not in its relative presence, but in its irreducible absence.” - Jean Baudrillard, Integral Reality.
This masterful still life photography captures the essence of the form and texture of everyday objects, evoking a sense of timelessness and modernity.
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Color Photography - Still Life with a Coral Branch and a Crystal Globe, NYC 2002
Still Life with a Coral Branch and a Crystal Globe, NYC, 2002
From the series Still Life
Printed on Hahnemuhle fine art photo rag paper
Dimensions: 36 H x 24 W in.
Edition of 7 + 2AP
Unframed
Michael James O’Brien is a multifaceted artist based in Atlanta, GA, known for his work as a photographer, teacher, curator, poet, and activist. He has held solo exhibitions in major cities worldwide, including New York, Paris, Beijing, and Istanbul. His photography is part of the National Portrait Gallery’s permanent collection in London and has been featured in esteemed publications such as Rolling Stone, Vogue UK, The New Yorker, and The Guardian. O'Brien authored Girlfriend; Men, Women, and Drag, published by Random House, and contributed to Matthew Barney’s Drawing Restraint 7 and Cremaster series. A dedicated activist, he has been involved with ACTUP and various HIV/AIDS awareness campaigns, including the Love Ball and Live Positive Campaign. Currently, he serves as the Chair of Photography at the Savannah College of Art and Design and chairs the Advisory Council of Atlanta Celebrates Photography.
