Wilson Arch Winterscape is unique for its deviation from Muench’s typical straight through window. In this piece, the curve of the arch frames the background and displays the shifts in light and dark throughout its arc. The values contrast with the winter scene (of which there are so many in this exhibit), especially towards the …
Sandstone Vantage Point features Muench’s classic technique of “near/far” while also utilizing the positive and negative space in an intriguing way. Close to home for Cline Library Special Collections and Archives, this photograph was taken on the opposite side of the San Francisco Peaks from Flagstaff. The rocks in the foreground almost form a window, …
In a flat image like a photograph, it is easy to forget the distance between subjects. Despite the sparce midground, the implication of space in Three Sisters Winterscape is monumental. The top of the foreground rock fails to overtake the mountain line in the background, which allows it to lead the viewer’s eye to the …
In Sandstone Light, the clear, bright sky contrasts with the Yei Bi Chei rock formation. The evening light makes the sandstone feel as though it is glowing, an effect more prominent on the closest rocks. The long shadows cast on the greenery in the midground break up the foreground and background, complementing the color of …
Hohokam Spiral Petroglyph overlooks a forest of saguaros and the Tucson mountain range. In the foreground is a prominent petroglyph in the shape of a spiral, framed by the triangular shape of the boulder. The petroglyph is most likely a migration symbol from the Hohokam culture. The form of the boulder mimics the zigzag of …
The dramatic push of the horizon line in The Goosenecks allows the viewer to weave through the valley unobstructed. Muench does not use this technique often, but it is used here with great effect. The rock layers help to achieve strong leading lines which guide the viewer around the image and form intense depth. The …
The oval pool of water in The Subway – North Creek converses with the tunnel, implying a similar shape between the canyon pool in the foreground and the sliver of light in the midground. Even some of the variation in the canyon walls seems circular. The Subway speaks to form and repetition in conjunction with …
Sandstone Window – Teardrop Arch displays a common composition from David Muench, the frame within a frame, known as his windows. It seemed to be a game for him to find interesting views through obscure viewpoints. Muench often returned to Teardrop Arch as evidenced by the several versions of this shot from different years, always …
Prometheus – Ancient Bristlecone is one of Muench’s most prized images, as one can tell in the physical exhibit by its large print size and unique frame. It contains everything that makes a photograph distinctly David Muench: depth, dynamic leading lines, a dramatic sky, and a vibrant color palette. The implied parallel lines of the rocky …
