big butte

For this assignment we had to look through our archives and find a universal theme in our previous work. Then, take a weekend and shoot 15 shots specifically planned out to represent or comment on the chosen theme. It was hard to look at my photos through this filter at first, but I eventually started to see a theme emerging. The theme was isolation. I decided to shoot the assignment in the Idaho desert where I go to seek isolation. The following shots are some of my favorites from the weekend shoot.

This image represents the unique nature of an isolated subject. Isolation nurtures novelty since solutions must be found out through experience.

This mysterious grouping of boxcars represents the decay that comes with prolonged isolation. There were row after row of these old boxcars lined up in the middle of the desert. I have no idea what they are for, and I didn’t stick around too long to find out either.

From the high vantage point, this image emphasizes the level of isolation experienced through this project.

This image represents the view seen from Isolation Summit. When one seeks the refuge of isolation this is the reward.

This image represents isolation and what it takes to truly achieve it. I find that in out modern world, it is difficult to be physically isolated. We tend to stay digitally isolated; confined to a internet bubble or videogame world. This image represents the spirit of an independent adventurer overcoming obstacles to find his or herself alone in the wilderness where one can heal from the inside out.

This image represents the resilience it takes to remain in isolation. Here is a deep well which is used to draw water up from the Snake River Aquifer to water sheep, horses, and cattle.

This image represents the independence of an isolated subject. The Big Southern Butte stands alone in the Idaho desert. The Butte single handedly supports a diverse ecosystem in the middle of an arid landscape.

This image represents isolation by showing this tattered flag posted at the summit of Big Southern Butte. The butte is located all alone in the Idaho desert, and this flag stands alone in the ripping wind that perpetually rakes this cliff face. This is a popular location for hang glider pilots to jump.