Rain Bernal
Kyle Thompson, "Untitled (Ghost Town)"
2014, Digital
This image was taken as part of a series called "Ghost Town". This picture was actually taken on a set constructed in the artist's backyard. I believe this image represents the impact of childhood and the expectations that are placed on you at an early age, specifically in families where children are expected to be winners. Here, I think the artist is able to convey the weight of perceived failures and the pressures of success through a flooded childhood home. I love the soft lighting and the colors in the composition. The colors seem desaturated, but they still pop. The gold contrasts against the blue very nicely. There is a clear separation of dark and light elements. In these kinds of families, kids are often taught to ignore themselves, and their needs are neglected as well. I believe the choice to have the subject in blue against a blue background is representative of this idea.
