This serene photographic composition masterfully balances organic natural forms with the clean, geometric structure of everyday objects. Photographed in Antwerp in 2013 for Michael James O'Brien's acclaimed Opalina Series, the artwork features a rich dark blue glass pitcher with an elegant white curved handle, holding a delicate single tulip as it sits atop a stack of vintage books on a small wooden side table. The deliberate simplicity of the interior setting highlights the subtle color variations and tactile tension between the soft floral stem and the solid glass and paper forms. Produced as an archival pigment print on Hahnemühle fine art paper in a limited edition, this print brings exceptional painterly balance and quiet contemplation to fine art photography collections.
O'brien's staged photographs masterfully balance organic forms with the geometric structure of books, vases, and other objects. The simplicity of the setting highlights the vibrant subtleties of the flowers, creating an appealing tension. These still life compositions invite the viewer to explore themes of balance and contrast through a delicate yet powerful presentation.
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Color Photography - Still Life with Books and a Dark Blue Opalina Vase, Antwerp
Still Life with Books and a Dark Blue Opalina Vase, Antwerp 2013
From Opalina Series
Archival Pigment prints
Printed on Hahnemuhle fine art paper
Limited Edition.
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.
