Presentation on Stephen Shore

As part of my L2L research project, I have been given the task of researching Stephen Shore, and presenting a mind-map based on the information I find about him. Stephen Shore is an American photographer, born in 1947, who has gained much recognition for his collection of photographs entitled 'Uncommon Places.' Shore embarked on a road trip across America, which he documented with his camera, spanning from 1973 to 1979. He recorded every day instances and situations, ranging from the petrol station he refuelled his car at, to the burger he ate at McDonalds.

Having spent several years documenting Andy Warhol's factory, from the tender age of 17, it is evident that Shore obtained an interest in pop and commercial art. His shots often contain simple graphics, in the form of signs and logos, for example at the Chevron petrol station (above).

Shore was intent on capturing the ordinary, in an extraordinary way. Like Warhol, he strove to document the ever-changing culture of modern America, and he seems to target the huge consumption of resources associated with their society and way of living.

The photograph of the filled car-park (above) seems to highlight America's dependent relationship with cars as a means of transport, as well as suggesting the vast consumption of oil and other resources by the modern world. It may also reflect Shore's own personal journey across America, in which he spent a large amount of time in his own car.

Shore also documented more enclosed, intimate instances, such as this hotel room. It depicts the sense of calm and relief felt by the individual, who presumably after a long journey, takes the opportunity to rest  and take time out from a busy world. However, the presence of the television on the wall seems to impose a little on the restful scene,  highlighting the reality that the media is a prominent part of modern American culture, and is difficult to avoid. 

 This photograph of an unmade jigsaw is one of my favourite pieces by Shore, and was the inspiration for my presentation mind-map. I think it is effective how Shore chose to capture the jigsaw in its topsy-turvy unmade state, which is probably more visually interesting than the completed puzzle would have been. His spontaneity in taking such an image is visible in the scattering of the loose jigsaw pieces which are cluttered around the table. The stark contrast between the yellow tablecloth and the light blue jigsaw pieces is aesthetically effective, and seems to imitate the enjoyable recreational activity of making a jigsaw.