Week 46 - 2019
Edward S. Curtis, Tobadzischini - Navaho (Born from Water), 1904. Belongs to the Preus museums collection
Behind the mask
A photograph can generate many different interpretations depending on the eye that sees. More precisely, it’s dependent on the brain's interpretation of what the eye perceives; an interpretation shaped by the brains stockpile of events, memories and experiences. How can we look past the mask of a picture?
The man in the image is a Navaho, photographed by Edward Curtis in 1904. He is dressed like Tobadzischini - He who is born out of water. The mythology tells us that together with his twin brother Nayenezgani (he who kills monsters) they protected the people from evil forces, enemies and gods who threatened ordinary mortals. However, to keep the balance in the world, they did not remove all obstacles and hardships. We need to face some challenges in order for us to become whole beings. In this sense, this image is a portrait of a hero and a benefactor.
This is just one way to interpret the image. Perhaps you have another?