VISUAL PERCEPTION
IN CONVERSATION WITH
DR. MARTIN SCHNEEBELI
FB: The phenomenon of snow exerts a unique visual appeal, largely attributable to its optical qualities. While snow predominantly appears white, its constituent ice crystals are transparent. Could you elucidate why snow exhibits a white coloration despite being made up of ice crystals?
MS: Indeed, ice’s transparency is a fascinating aspect, with pure water ice being among the most transparent substances visible to the human eye. This is similar to clear water, which allows visibility depths of up to 20 meters in pristine conditions. The white appearance of snow originates from the minimal light absorption by ice within our visible spectrum. When light encounters multiple ice particles, it undergoes refraction—a process that scatters the light in various directions when passing through numerous ice crystals. This scattering effect prevents us from distinguishing individual crystals, presenting instead a uniform surface that reflects visible light back to the observer. Consequently, snow appears white to us, a color we perceive as a blend of all visible light spectra.
THE TRANSITION
2021
The descent of snow from the sky not only transforms the landscape into a serene, white blanket but also significantly alters our perception of the world around us. This metamorphosis is not static as snow undergoes various phases post-fall, each with its distinct impact on our environment and daily lives.
To capture and convey this dynamic transformation, a pictorial narrative is proposed, utilizing the medium of print magazine. The choice of this medium is deliberate, chosen for its tangible and ephemeral qualities that mirror the fleeting essence of snow itself. The picture story aims not only to document the physical changes but also to evoke a deeper reflection on the temporary nature of snow‘s beauty and the challenges it presents. Through carefully curated images and accompanying narratives, the story explores the themes of transformation, impermanence, and the intersection of natural phenomena with human activity.
Brochure with adhesive binding – Paper: 90g inner part matt, cover: 250g matt – Number of pages: 76, edition: 6 pcs. – 210 x 297 mm
