the
ordinary
project
liv shamelessly
At the height of the pandemic, I chanced upon a poignant quote: “Banality, akin to boredom, suggests that those bored are inherently boring, and those who label things as banal are themselves banal. Truly captivating individuals find intrigue everywhere.” This challenged my prior perceptions of my inclination to capture the "ordinary" or "random" through my lens. Paradoxically, by accentuating the 'ordinary', I strive to breathe a creativity that defies convention. Labeling something as “ordinary” often carries an undertone, suggesting it’s undeserving of attention.
Yet, elevating the mundane is akin to highlighting the unforeseen - what most overlook or undervalue. Indeed, upon deeper reflection, nothing is genuinely “ordinary” or “banal”. The mundane moments, the routine tasks, the ebb and flow of everyday life, all contribute to life's rich tapestry. These “ordinary” facets are what we universally engage with. They become life’s underpinnings, the threads weaving us together, a symbolic touchpoint underscoring our shared existence. This newfound perspective was the catalyst for "The Ordinary Project."
While these photographs may not epitomize technical perfection, their essence lies in the depth of observation and the ability to find meaning in the seemingly mundane. Honestly, this project is a raw glimpse into my unfiltered camera roll, capturing moments and objects that, for one reason or another, struck a chord with me.
It’s fair to wonder why I would include this collection of photographs in the first place. They may not speak to my talents in the professional or artistically admirable sense. What they do speak to, though, is what makes me, me. These photos are an ode to my unique eye. The very thing that drives me to pause and capture seemingly random, insignificant moments. Above all, it’s what inspires me to create the things that are “professionally” or “artistically” admirable. And THAT’S why these moments feel essential to share.
So, here’s to being shamelessly ourselves - every chance we get.
P.S. Yes, the subtitle is “liv shamelessly” and yes, I do know how to spell. Most know me as Liv and, well, I’m a sucker for a good pun.