càrn

This black-and-white photograph presents a minimalist and contemplative study of a cairn—a stack of balanced stones—resting on a rocky ledge.

Composition and Subject

The Cairn: The central focus is a carefully balanced tower of approximately nine flat, weathered stones of varying sizes. The stack tapers toward the top, ending in a small, singular pebble.

The Foundation: The stones rest on a rugged, solid rock base that shows natural fissures and a coarse, granular texture.

The Background: The background consists of a soft, out-of-focus expanse of water, with gentle ripples creating a rhythmic, horizontal pattern.

Atmosphere and Style

Zen Aesthetic: The image evokes a sense of balance, patience, and meditation, common themes associated with stone stacking in natural environments.

Monochrome Depth: The use of a grayscale palette emphasizes the varied textures of the stone against the fluid, shimmering quality of the distant water.

Soft Lighting: The lighting is diffused, casting subtle shadows between the individual stones of the cairn and highlighting the top-down perspective of the scene.