Joel Ellis

In Defense of the Poor Image

1.     Low Resolutions

        I understand that the poor image (low resolutions image), is a second hand, hand me down image of the original, and yes some times the file names are replaced, in order to connect to a certain project. Almost every time an image is transferred over the web, it loses some of its originality. Nothing looks as brilliant and is more in-focus than an original image.

2.     Resurrection (as Poor Images)

Poor images are easier and faster to share on line. They take up less space on your computer or device, and you can upgrade them, if you seem fit. A lot of classic images/films have been copied and refurbished, as poor images, but at least, because of technology, we are able to preserve them.  

3.     Privatization and Piracy

Just like rich people can afford to purchase new clothes, cars and houses, and poor people cannot afford these luxuries, therefore brilliant original images are in a class all by themselves. Where as, poor images, as compared to poor people, do not shine as brilliant as the rich folks or poor images compared to an original image. The original image may be copy written, and may cost a lot to use the rights, thus opening the way for original image to be downloaded as a poorer image and circulated as such.

4.     Imperfect Cinema

I always believed that when a person makes a mistake, it only proves that he or she is human, comparing this to an imperfect image or film, the audience, I feel, will feel more accepting of the art/artist that is being portrayed.

5.     Comrade, what is your visual bond today?

File sharing, I believe, is the most used and most common way to establish a visual bond in today’s society, and poor images play a major role in creating this visual bond. I agree with the writer when it was said by Dziga Vertov, “The circulation of poor images thus creates “visual bonds,” This “visual bond” links the workers of the world with each other”. (https://www.e-flux.com/journal/10/61362/in-defense-of-the-poor-image/Web 10/25/2018)

6.     Now!

I agree with the author, that a poor image/film/video art is a reflection of a former masterpiece. The poor image takes on a life of its own, and in doing so, in its own way becomes its own ‘Original’ poor image.