Hymn to the Earth by Ron Rosenstock
Hymn to the Earth by Ron Rosenstock
Forty-two black and white photographs from around the world, accompanied by poetry by the Irish poet, Gabriel Rosenstock. Published in a limited Edition of 1,000 signed and numbered copies with Duotone photographs. This was the inspiring and dramatic accompanying book to Ron's exhibition at the Worcester Art Museum.
Silver Strand Press, hardcover, 90 pages, 2003.
Customer Reviews:
"Hymn to the Earth includes I think much of the imagery that was shown at Ron Rosenstock's show of the same name in 2011-12 at the Worcester Art Museum in Worcester, Massachusetts. The show was quite a success and was held over for several months. I went back several times because the imagery was so compelling. I'm glad I have the book though as it has made it possible for me to contemplate and try to make personal sense of the work. The images are largely landscapes of natural locations, but the collection also includes images of locations where humans have left their mark such as Volubilis in Morocco and the White House Ruin in Arizona. But there is an underlying theme which I think the title captures. This is a "Hymn" of appreciation, drawing our attention to special places that provoke reflection on who we are and the gifts we have been given. It is not a particularly religious hymn though it is hard not to think about a higher power when viewing these special images. The accompanying verse, written by Gabrielle Rosenstock draws our attention to the questions raised by the images. My personal favorite is Plate No. 38, the Moeraki Boulders in New Zealand. The verse states simply, 'Still unsure of where they are boulders from another universe." Indeed, I think this applies to more than just these boulders.
The images are largely black and white, probably large format though it appears that there area a few images that were captured in infrared. These are tastefully rendered. The compositions are stunning as is the use of light. The quality of the reproductions is terrific, as is the paper and type. This is a gift that will keep on giving through the years. It's also quite a thank you note. "
"I can't say enough about the vivid and incredible images that Ron Rosenstock is able to capture through the lens of a camera. He is the latest in a photographic genealogy reaching back to Ansel Adams and Minor White. In this gorgeous black and white collection, the beauty of the earth is stark and stunning. There just are no comparisons and if you're interested in black and white, then Ron Rosenstock's books are a must! "