Gnomon is an ongoing project that started during lockdown. It is single pole painted in my studio during a time we were encouraged to stay local. A portable work that I could take with me when we were allowed back out into the world. I have since photographed this work in various settings. Locations that represent a break from my usual and allow me to stretch my legs and lungs as a form of recalibration. The pole marking my still presence for a limited time in these natural spaces that are accessed by the simple practice of a long walk. A physical break from a routine of persistent technology.

 

Gnomon, from ancient greek ‘one that knows or examines’ is a term with a variety of uses. A painted stick dating from 2300 BC that was excavated at the astronomical site of Taosi is the oldest gnomon known in China. The gnomon was widely used in ancient China in order to determine the changes in seasons, orientation, and geographical latitude. Gnomon shadow lengths were used to determine orientation around the 14th century BC.

 

In my pieces, Gnomon in this case representing the practice of being aware and orientating ourselves within a present moment or space. A visual antennea and marking of place and the meditative act of walking there. In ‘The Old Ways’ Robert MacFarlane writes of walking not just as encouraging escape or retreat but as enabling sight and thought. Paths are not only a means of traversing space but also ways of feeling, being and knowing.