Word for today is library. This shot is looking into what used to be the main circulation room when this was Chicago's main public library building. It's now the Chicago Cultural Center with special exhibitions, open to the public daily. It's a building that almost assaults with all the patterns and textures from the mosaics and architectural elements. The quote etched at the base of the dome is from this one (I think):
"Books are the legacies that a great genius leaves to mankind, which are delivered down from generation to generation as presents to the posterity of those who are yet unborn."
Posting the actual dome in my overflow album: http://365project.org/taffy/special-photos/2014-04-04
now there's some of those colors. I'm fascinated, though, at the way your photos are highlighting the structures rather than the colors. I think I must see colors first, structures second. love the light hanging perfectly dead center.
@ericdibosco Yes -- composite of three shots. I find that as long as the shutter speed is reasonable (over 60), I can handhold steady enough for three shots with my D600. It has a continuous shutter release (I set to 3) when you hold the shutter down a little longer than normal.
@francoise I've always been fascinated by shape and with architecture shots, it gives me a chance to explore shape and pattern. I think that's also why I've gotten more interested in b&w over the course of my 365 experience.
Sounds like this may have risked demolition. Thank goodness it wasn't. With bookstores and libraries disappearing we must heed these words. Youtube isn't going to cut it.
Such an amazingly intricate structure with an overflow of ornamentation. It truly lends itself to a symmetrical and centered representation, which you have achieved perfectly. I love all the overlapping shadows of the arches in the background, and I am still trying to figure out the reflection in the center one! So much to see and study in this building....I wonder if it all becomes background when you are in there; otherwise I would find it so hard to concentrate on reading in that space!