Lens-Artists Challenge #13 – LOOK UP

“Look up from what you’re doing and see what a beautiful world you’re in.”

Ralph Marston

BRIDGE AND STORM

This week Patti invites us to look up, giving us the opportunity to rise above the maelstrom of the daily news for at least a few moments.  I’ve opened with an image of storm clouds gathering above our Arthur Ravenel Bridge which connects the city of Charleston to the northern suburbs. Completed in 2005, it’s a relatively new addition to the greater Charleston area that can be seen from most anywhere, including Kiawah. Its beautifully designed span draws the eye and greatly enhances our skyline.

CHURCH STEEPLE

“Keep looking up, that’s the secret of life.”

Peanuts

Charleston was one of the first places in the world to offer religious tolerance, and is known as the Holy City because of its many churches (400+).  As a classic example, above we see the steeple of Saint Philip’s Church. It has persevered through war and a major fire as well as natural events including earthquakes, hurricanes and even a tornado. A much-loved site for tourists and Charlestonians alike, it was built to stick out into the street.  According to local legend its protrusion was designed to force people to slow down and think about living a good life. 

WELCOMING WINDOW

“When you look up, you go up.”

Herschel Walker

Charlestonians are proud of their many beautiful gardens which thrive in our hot, humid climate (although as a transplanted northerner I find it a bit on the warm side 😉 ). Many of the city’s historic homes are enhanced by the placement of lovely flower boxes which are continually refreshed and add color to the city’s palette. Known for its southern hospitality, Charleston has received numerous awards including best city in the US by Travel and Leisure readers for the past 6 years in a row. 

BUILDING SIGN

“Become the person your younger self would want to look up to”

Goitsemang Mvula

Perhaps another reason for her popularity, Charleston has become quite a “foodie” city, drawing gourmands from around the country to sample her many restaurants. Southern specialties such as grits, biscuits and fried chicken are readily available as are the bounties of the nearby sea – especially the delicious shrimp caught just off our shores. The sign in the image above is painted high overhead, on the side wall of a local favorite.

AUTUMN COLOR

“Looking up at the sky was the best idea I had all day.”

Marty Rubin

Finally, I’ll close with an image I captured last autumn, as we are still enjoying summer-like temps here in the Charleston area. Despite an occasional complaint about the lack of local fall colors, every once in a while one can look up to see a tree that offers a bit of autumn’s magic. That combined with the beautiful purples of our sweetgrass is just enough for me!

Be sure to visit Patti’s post here, or for more information about joining our challenge click here. Tune in next week to see our next challenge presented by Ann-Christine at https://lagottocattleya.wordpress.com

 

Tags: LENS-ARTISTS

• September 29, 2018
• Charleston, Photography
• 91 Comments