Over and Over and Over, Again

Ella Afheldt

A black and white photographic grid, 5 images wide by 7 images tall, featuring 35 distinct compositions centered on a black-rimmed analog quartz wall clock. Each cell presents the clock in a unique state: some are sharply lit, others cast in deep shadow or partially obscured by darkness; some are intentionally blurred or distorted; others interact with physical elements such as a crumpled plastic bag, flowing water, or draped fabric. A cracked clock face is visible in some frames. The minimalist white backgrounds or contrasting black panels emphasize the varied conditions and conceptual exploration of time and perception.

Over and Over and Over, Again is a conceptual photographic project in which the same
object, a clock, is photographed repetitively, although the clarity, position and time
change. The clock may be fully in frame, semi- or fully obscured, or it may be gone
altogether. No image repeats, no time repeats. I am constantly aware of the movement,
and yet I am unable to do anything about it.
According to a 2020 study published in Frontiers in Psychology, 48% of undergraduate
students reported above-average burnout, while 14% reported high amounts of burnout.
School and academic achievement-related stress aren’t the only issue as creative block
and creative burnout both contribute greatly; a 2024 study published in Science Direct
similarly revealed the high levels of art exhaustion faced by both professional and hobby
artists alike.
Schedules and the focus on productivity allow less time for meaningful connection and
thoughtfulness. By photographing the same clock over and over, my work deals with my
feelings and frustrations with time.

    About The Artist

    A headshot of a young person with light brown, wavy hair and gold-rimmed aviator-style glasses, smiling gently. They are looking directly at the viewer with a warm expression, and their hands are clasped beneath their chin. They are seated in a high-backed chair with a dark brown and white scalloped patterned upholstery. In the blurred background to the left, a green-framed stained-glass window with organic patterns is visible, showing a hint of an interior with a yellow lamp.

    Ella Afheldt

    Ella is a photographic artist primarily working in the documentary medium.

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