Photoseries 'In Conversation With Kadal' Is A Visual Poem To The Sea & The Emotions It Elicits
On the serene shores of Puducherry, where the whispers of the sea intertwine with the depths of human emotions, photographer Ranjithkumar Oudeacoumar embarks on a profound exploration through his ongoing project, 'In conversation with Kadal'.
Centred around the Tamil word for 'sea', his work delves into the intricate relationship between people and the vast expanse of the ocean, inviting the audience to feel the emotional resonance of this connection.
For Ranjithkumar, 'Kadal' is not merely a geographical entity but a mirror reflecting an individual's moods and emotions. He perceives the sea as a sacred space, offering unparalleled intimacy where human experiences of romance, friendship, solitude, spirituality, and womanhood converge and unfold. Through his lens he captures the subtle nuances of these interactions, viewing them as silent dialogues between 'Kadal' and its visitors.
"I believe 'Kadal' is a reflection of one's mood and it always tunes in with one's emotional self."
Ranjithkumar Oudeacoumar
A significant aspect of Ranjithkumar's project, 'Kadalum Kadhalum' (Sea and Love), delves into the theme of romance and love amidst the waves. Through candid shots and poignant compositions, he portrays the tender moments shared by couples against the backdrop of the sea's vastness, encapsulating the timeless essence of love.
However, Ranjithkumar's journey extends beyond photography; it evolves into a profound realisation of his true passion. Through his interactions with diverse individuals at the sea, he discovers that his passion lies not solely in photography but in people themselves. This revelation propels him toward psychology and sexology, shaping his career as a therapist and demonstrating his unwavering commitment to his passion.
Ranjithkumar's creative process embodies a state of mindfulness and receptivity. Approaching each beach excursion with an empty mind, he immerses himself in the present moment, allowing the scenes to unfold naturally before his camera. While consistency remains pivotal, he acknowledges the challenge of maintaining it amidst the ebb and flow of inspiration. Nonetheless, he perseveres, continually refining his narratives through meticulous curation and reworking of his images.
"The purpose is to feel expressed. CREATION happens as an outcome. I always go to the beach with no expectations. I keep my mind empty. I make myself to exist and be there, be in the moment, as an observant. Photographing will follow up as an outcome."
Ranjithkumar Oudeacoumar
An array of artistic influences informs Ranjithkumar's aesthetic sensibilities. Drawing inspiration from the works of painters, photographers, poets, and storytellers, he finds resonance in the diverse voices that echo through the annals of art history. From the evocative strokes of Modigliani to the raw lyricism of Ocean Vuong's poetry, each influence contributes to the rich tapestry of his creative vision.
Through 'In conversation with Kadal', Ranjithkumar Oudeacoumar invites us to embark on a journey of introspection and contemplation, where the rhythmic cadence of the sea mirrors the impermanence of human existence and the silent dialogues between 'Kadal' and its residents resonate with timeless truths about love, longing, and the human condition.
Follow his work here.
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