Objects Quote by John Divola
“The photograph as an object has a relationship to that which it represents something like the relationship the snake skin has to the snake that sheds it.”
About This Quote
Source Interview: Art Talk with John Divola, 2015
The photograph is a physical object that mirrors its subject, similar to how a snake’s shed skin reflects the snake itself.
In simple terms: Photos reflect what they depict, like a shed skin mirrors a snake.
Key Takeaway
Recognize the material link between image and subject.
Themes
art
perception
representation
Mood
contemplative
analytical
Type
theoretical
reflective
When to use this quote
- gallery exhibition
- photographic critique
- educational lecture
- curatorial discussion
Key Concepts
visual metaphor
materiality
Questions to Reflect On
- How does materiality affect meaning?
- Can a photograph ever fully capture its subject?
A Different Perspective
The analogy may oversimplify complex photographic intent.
![“[The photograph] is the object itself... [It] shares, by virtue of the very process of its becoming, the being of the model of which it is the reproduction; it is the model.” quote by Andre Bazin](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/21d/andre-bazin-36481_becoming_the-photograph-is-the-object-itself-it-s_2150395.jpg)
![“It's good to be around people who see [photography] as a reasonable enterprise when everyone in the neighborhood may think it's ridiculous. (On the benefit of teaching photography)” quote by John Divola](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/674/john-divola-55176_benefits_it-s-good-to-be-around-people-who-see-ph_1737476.jpg)
![“He [an earnest young reporter] seemed to share the view of many intelligent, well-educated, well-meaning people that, while adult literature may aim to be art, the object of children's books is to whip the little rascals into shape.” quote by Katherine Paterson](https://sms4smile.com/quotes/img-quotes/2cf/katherine-paterson-2365_adults_he-an-earnest-young-reporter-seemed-to-s_6101.jpg)
