Contrast, Balance, and Harmony

When thinking about all three of the categories of contrast, balance, and harmony I think of delicate arch in Moab Utah. This arch is in perfect harmony with its surroundings and the fact that it stands there undisturbed so majestically speaks to these three principles. Looking at this image you can quickly identify the common forms of contrast that are present. Size is the first one that stands out to me. The size of this arch dominates the image and the scenery in which it stands. The arch stands breathtakingly tall when you stand under it is when you realize how big it really is and how small we really are. Just left of the base you can see a couple people and that brings the realism of the size that this arch stands. The position of the arch is astonishingly perfect it sits along the edge of a cliff with a 100 plus foot drop off. The position within the image is that it highlights the arch but brings perspective to the background as well with shows the uniqueness of this area. The shape and the texture of the arch is influenced by the elements of the earth. The wind removes sand and pieces of the arch everyday constantly reshaping the texture and the shape. Though these changes are not noticeable they are happening the image captures how the arch will be remembered and not always how it will be seen. The elements and nature created this arch and the elements and nature will one day take it away. The color shows the culture of the area; the red rock informs us of the unique red rock of Utah. The balance of this image is a strong principle that is present. The balance of the arch in the image is that it is the visual center of the page and your eyes immediately go to the arch before analyzing anything else within the image. The balance of the arch is essentially asymmetrical with both horizontal and vertical elements being present that gives the arch its uniqueness. The ground figure is that of the scenery and background in which it sits the arch is oddly out of place and it’s amazing to think that this formed over time and that it still stands to this day. When you take this hike and you approach the top and come around the corner and see this arch standing there you have no words for what you’re seeing. The scenery in which it sits and portrays this arch is so harmonious and peaceful to experience.   

My visceral response. As I drive up and approach the 6th tee of Coral Canyon golf course here in St. George I get the immense feeling of beauty and intimidation all at the same time. This tee shot is a par 3 120 yard shot with an island green surrounded by beautiful red rock. Almost looks as if your playing a round of golf on mars where the entire course is engulfed in red rock and little mountains. The view on this particular tee shot is intensely stupefying and you can't but appreciate the beauty of what it takes to build and maintain a course such as this one. In this picture you can begin to appreciate the different colors that are present. Beginning with the tee box where it is a stunning shade of green cut to the perfect length of grass to set up what you need to be a perfect shot. As you place your ball on the tee you look up and out at what you see is 100 yards of red rock with nothing in between you and your target which leaves little room for error. The feeling when you look up from the tee and you see the beautiful island green with the flag waving knowing you have to hit a perfect shot is exhilarating to me. When I see this picture I get that feeling of when I'm on the tee box about to tee off. As I tee off and my ball launches into the air you see this beautiful mountain nestled in the background surrounded by gorgeous blue sky which tends to give me goosebumps while I watch my ball soar through the air. As I await the landing of my shot I am able to observe the colors of blue, green, and red which is very aesthetically pleasing to the eye. Once the ball lands you observe a heavy amount of green with a red mountain backdrop. You identify your ball placed on the circular green and if its a pleasing shot you cant help but smile because you feel accomplished for what you achieved in the face of this holes difficulty and beauty, however you still have a birdie put that you need to sink.

Golf is a passion of mine I have played sense I was young and always enjoyed the beauty and uniqueness of every course. I feel as if golf courses are a work of art the way that they mold in with there surroundings is amazing and beautiful to me. I get goosebumps every time I play a course because the work that it takes to keep up something so beautiful as golf courses is something I really appreciate.