Description of a portrait photograph of American artist Jim Morrison

Daumas Lucas                                                Photojournalism Seminar

“Young Lion” photograph of bare-chested Jim Morrison by American photographer Joel Brodsky, summer 1967

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I chose this picture of American singer Jim Morrison because of its iconic status and the feline energy it emanates of one of my favorite artists. Compositionally, the posture of the artist creates a sense of strong intensity and directness in the image. His arms are stretched out at both sides, and he is looking directly into the camera with his face as expressionless as the moon and a halo of waterfall curls. It then sparks multiple feelings such as of mystery, darkness, and brooding. The representation of his physicality with his muscular chest and toned physique conveys a sense of sensuality and sexual energy. Plus, the black and white format with the play of lights and shadows make it a unique and timeless piece of work. Hence, we would almost think that the iconic rockstar is sacrificing himself in crucifixion pose for his music through the capture of his real nature.

Indeed, the photography reflects in different ways the 23 years old Morrison’s rebellious, non-conformist and boundary-pushing spirit. His bare chest and direct gaze highlight the defiance and confidence of the persona, reflecting him as a rebel and outsider. Contributing to the strong appeal of Morrison to people, it depicts his mystical and sensual personality. Grasping the substance of Morrison’s persona, the picture presents him as a larger-than-life figure, a charismatic and enigmatic rock star who embodies the spirit of his generation : the counterculture movement of the 1960s and the youth at that time.

Overall, the “Young Lion” photograph shows the way in which the camera tried to capture the essence and the depth of the artist’ persona. Becoming a key recognizable image of the rock star, it helps us to shape our understanding of who he was and what he represented. Yet, this capture of a single moment in time to suggest a sense of the rock star’s personality, is limited in expressing the full complexity and nuance of his character. The rock star was indeed a multi-faceted individual who let parts of his nature shine through this kind of pictures.

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