Saturday, September 19, 2026

The Peaceforce



Three rock doves (or collared doves) in an acute Vic formation - 2025, DS.

 

"I come in peace."

Who said that first? I forget now, but, according to internet sources, it was some pulp fiction alien life form or another. Ironically, this makes a certain amount of sense. Here on Earth, peace is an almost extraterrestrial concept.

That being said, "Take me to you leader" is, perhaps, funnier.

But, I strongly sense a moment of peace is needed on this blog and clouds are my go-to source these days. The photo above was a lucky shot; 3 doves flew through the frame in real time. Meaningfully, this happened almost 9 months ago. So, if it was a good omen, well, maybe it's still gestating. The "good" is yet to come.

But, enough of that. The point of this post is to find peace, and, failing that, to make it... like artist, Berndnaut Smilde, who conjures up his own clouds to photograph. Even if you're familiar with his work, it's always cool to watch him unleash a cloud in a dramatic indoor space.

 




The video above documents his NeueHouse performance of Nimbus. Basically, Smilde brings a cloud indoors. From Wiki: "He chooses locations that are old, damp, and have no air circulation." The upshot is "Time magazine called this technique one of the fifty best inventions of 2012." It almost strikes me like some kind of Fairy Tale... have you ever wanted to capture a cloud in a jar?



Timestamp: July 24, 3:01 PM, Albuquerque, DS.



2 comments:

  1. Everyone needs a few happy clouds in their view and the doves are just icing on the proverbial cake.

    I think "I come in peace" originated from the 1951 film, "The Day The Earth Stood Still", but I could easily be greatly mistaken.

    The video is interesting. I think seeing the performance in person would impart a greater impact and perhaps a greater appreciation of the art.

    This Is a lovely little interlude - a much needed pause between the frames of general chaos and daily confusion. Thank you.

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    1. Thanks, BG! Yes, I think you're right about the source of the expression but it was used a lot over the years.

      I think you have to see Smilde's photographs to really understand his art. Click on the "Nimbus" link which takes you to his website.

      AlI think we really need a Peaceforce!

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