Tunnel of Light

Lately I've noticed that a good number of photographs submitted to Fotoblur and Fotoblur Magazine share some common themes. For instance, one theme of photos I see often are of subjects moving through long tunnels, doorways, or staircases towards a bright light. These hypnotic, mysterious images have a tremendous impact on me and instantly appeal to my inner sense, as if alluding to me some deeper meaning. Rather than discuss merits such as composition, use of color, and depth of field it may be interesting to discuss the symbolism behind these images and why this symbolism makes them so visually appealing.

For me, the common symbolism shared by many of these images is the symbol of transformation. Transformation is a powerful symbol and can represent change, regeneration, rebirth, and even death. Photos that include their subjects either standing at a doorway with light eminating from within, ascending an escalator, or walking down a hallway towards a bright light are great examples of the transformation symbol.

What is also interesting is that people who have experienced the phenomenon of near death experience have described an account very similar to the scenes depicted in these images. These individuals describe themselves as having travelled through a tunnel, towards a warm and inviting light, and experiencing feelings of ecstasy and pure bliss overtake them. Subjects often describe leaving their bodies and becoming completely seperated from the material world then entering, what they describe as, the pure energy and consiousness of the universe.

This specific type of sybolic imagery is actually not new and dates back as early as the 15th century. Hieronymus Bosch's dark painting, Acscent of the Blessing, depicts a tunnel of light which explores human's underlying fears about the transformation from life to death. It is part of a series entitled Visions of the Hereafter. Gustave Doré's Dante and Beatrice gaze upon the highest Heaven depicts a bright light in the center of a sea of angels.

Whether its pure hypnosis, NDE fascination, or simply great use of symbolism, almost anyone can agree these are amazing images to take in.

The Frigid Wastelands by Michael Vincent Manalo

Connection by Anuchit Sundarakiti

Night Road by Mikko Lagerstedt

trip into the unknown by Mojca Cvirn

...UP... by Anuchit Sundarakiti

In pursuit of time by Valdimir Perfanov

the passengers by ugo frosi

Waiting by Anuchit Sundarakiti

ascent by Dave Engledow

The Machinations of the Perturbed One by Michael Vincent Manalo

Exit.... by Anuchit Sundarakiti

Beginning by Anuchit Sundarakiti

Stranger by Mikko Lagerstedt

Speed by Grazia Pezzini

Ultimate Brightness by Dr. Akira TAKAUE

Solitary traveller by Miquel Planells Saurina

Blue Tunnel Vision by Jan Gravekamp