Animal Locomotion. An Electro-Photographic Investigation of Consecutive Phases of Animal Movements. Commenced 1872 - Completed 1885. Volume IV, Women (Nude) 1880s

Eadweard Muybridge created 'Animal Locomotion' between 1872 and 1885 using electro-photography. This work meticulously captures phases of animal movement within a grid of frames. The composition reveals a woman and a dog interacting. Muybridge’s arrangement isn't just documentation, it's a formal study of motion broken down into its most basic, sequential components. Each frame contains stark tonal contrasts, accentuating the shapes and forms of the subjects. The structure of the grid itself imposes a sense of order and scientific objectivity. Yet, the fragmented, stop-motion effect challenges our perception of continuous movement, prompting contemplation on how we perceive time and motion. This series of images explores how the camera can dissect and reassemble our understanding of physical action, transforming a fleeting moment into a subject of prolonged analysis. It invites viewers to decode the underlying mechanics of movement through a combination of visual components.