Light Returns: Illuminating the Chaos
It all begins with an idea.
After a five-year hiatus, Light - A Journal of Photography & Poetry is reigniting its mission to explore the interplay of visual and literary art. The world has changed dramatically since our last publication. The chaos of a global pandemic, political upheaval, and the relentless pace of the digital age has left us all reeling. Yet, in the midst of uncertainty, art has remained a steadfast beacon—helping us process, heal, and make sense of a fragmented world.
During our pause, the world faced an unprecedented challenge: COVID-19 disrupted lives, communities, and our sense of stability. For many of us, it was a time of immense loss and upheaval, but also a period of reflection. Art and poetry became lifelines, offering moments of clarity amidst the storm. It is in this spirit that Light makes its return, seeking to provide a platform for voices navigating this new terrain.
Our theme for the relaunch issue is aptly titled: Chaos. It feels only natural to begin here—acknowledging the overwhelming forces that have shaped our collective experience over the past few years. Chaos, after all, is not just disarray; it is also a catalyst for transformation. It can be destructive, but it can also foster creativity, innovation, and growth.
We invite photographers and poets to interpret chaos in all its forms: the personal and political, the digital and physical, the quiet and the cacophonous. Whether it’s the spiraling fragmentation of the digital age, the emotional turbulence of isolation, or the moments of beauty found in disorder, we want to see how you’ve captured and shaped the chaos into something meaningful.
At Light, we believe that art and poetry are powerful tools for connection. They bridge gaps, spark conversations, and illuminate perspectives. By publishing works that explore chaos, we aim to create a collective portrait of resilience, a testament to the power of creativity in turbulent times.
As we embark on this new chapter, we extend our gratitude to the community of artists and writers who have supported us over the years. Your work continues to inspire us, and we are honored to share it with the world once again.
The deadline for submissions for our Chaos issue is fast approaching. If you’re ready to contribute your voice to this ongoing conversation, we’d love to hear from you. Let’s navigate the chaos together—through the lens of a camera, the flow of a pen, and the enduring light of creativity.
Welcome back to Light.
About the Blog
Welcome to Darklight: Exploring the Interplay of Photography and Poetry
Welcome to Darklight, a space where the worlds of photography and poetry converge to delve deeper into the stories behind the art. Inspired by Light: A Journal of Photography & Poetry, this blog serves as an exploration of the historical and modern landscapes of these two powerful art forms.
Photography captures a moment in time; poetry distills emotions and ideas into words. Together, they offer a unique lens through which we can view the world, connecting the visual and the verbal in ways that are profound and enduring. At Darklight, we aim to examine this connection through thoughtful articles, artist and poet features, and discussions about the evolving dynamics of both mediums.
What You’ll Find on Darklight
Historical Perspectives
Discover the origins of photography and poetry as we explore pivotal movements, iconic creators, and the cultural forces that shaped these art forms. From the Pictorialist photographers of the 19th century to the modernist poets of the 20th century, we’ll uncover how their work continues to inspire contemporary artists.Modern Voices
Learn about today’s most compelling photographers and poets who are pushing boundaries and redefining their crafts. We’ll feature interviews, reviews, and insights into how these artists use their mediums to respond to the modern world.The Intersection of Words and Images
Dive into the unique ways in which photography and poetry complement and challenge each other. Whether through collaborations, published works, or exhibitions, we’ll explore how these art forms come together to create something greater than the sum of their parts.Inspiration for Creatives
If you’re a photographer, poet, or admirer of both, Darklight will offer inspiration, prompts, and ideas to fuel your own creative journey.
Why Darklight?
The name Darklight reflects the duality and contrast that exists within both photography and poetry—the balance of shadow and illumination, despair and hope, silence and expression. Through this blog, we hope to illuminate the timeless and ever-relevant connection between these two disciplines.
Stay tuned for our first post, where we’ll take a closer look at the groundbreaking collaboration between Chuck Close and Bob Holman in A Couple Ways of Doing Something, a prime example of photography and poetry working in harmony.
Join us on this journey into the fascinating interplay of imagery and verse. Subscribe to our newsletter, follow us on social media, and let’s explore the light and shadows together.
Welcome to Darklight.