Cajsa Lilliehook covers the best in virtual world screenshot art and digital painting
I love Anu Papp’s photostream. “Out Beyond” (above) is emblematic of her style. Unadorned simplicity with emotionally evocative power achieved through both the avatar positioning, the angle, and the use of light and shadow. This picture is shot from above over her shoulder. Their faces and bodies are closely held, dancing. He holds her hand delicately and appears to be listening as she speaks in his ear. The intimacy of their positions is amplified by the shadows that close in around them.
“The Audition” quotes the audition line from the movie Gia, “Mr. Walker, you wanted to see me?” and very simply portrays the nervous anxiety of auditioning by having that right heel lifted. You might think two legs are fairly anonymous, but Anu Papp’s styling makes her youth and style apparent. First, the shoes have exaggerated bows which are more likely to be worn by someone following contemporary fashions. The anklets are a signifier of her youth. We can know all this with just a glance because she was clever with the pose, the crop of just her lower legs, and the styling.
“Awake” is simply stunning. She has this frank, considering look. In a way, I can see her looking like this after someone said something completely obnoxious, counting to ten in her head, and saying “I’m sorry you feel that way” and walking away. She seems relaxed, in control, and confident.
I enjoy Anu Papp’s stream. Her pictures are deceptively simple. Many are just the avatar or avatars in a black or white space. A few have some furnishings or landscape, but the focus is always on the people other than with a few exceptions. She also takes excellent real-life photos as well. So much so, sometimes I had to check if a picture is first or Second Life. Take a look yourself and see if you guess right.
See all of Cajsa's Choices here. Follow Cajsa on Flickr, on Twitter or on her blog.
Comments