Discussions about theory or principles or ideas are often not very successful. Concepts without illustration or story can be ephemeral, confusing or dull. But use a story or a photo to illustrate your idea and your audience will be less likely to disengage and will ‘get it’ much more quickly.
Susan says, “Let us suppose you are asked to speak about the value of collaboration or the key arguments driving fears of artificial intelligence or the power of secret ballots or the rights of individuals. These are all vital ideas and worthy of exploration, but how do you bring them alive, how do you get your audience to understand them, agree with them, or disagree with them, and at very the least, care and understand them. Using a photograph with a concrete and real subject can often help bridge the gap. Here we have what looks like a hand-built boat, someone’s idea of a house on water with its railings that imitate the look of a pirate ship, its modern curved metal roof, a lounge chair in the stern and a bright yellow rowboat tethered behind. Someone has let their imagination run free and built a ship that may not be everyone’s ideal but is certainly fulfilling someone’s dream.”
Lucia says, “For me this scene evokes a peaceful existence. During the day, I picture houseboat resident sitting on the ‘back porch’ watching the wildlife on the river. And at night gently being rocked to sleep as the water laps against the boat. These are the images that compelled me to create this photo.”
