Plate Number 164. Jumping and pole-vaulting 1887

Eadweard Muybridge created this photographic sequence of a man jumping and pole-vaulting in the late 19th century. Across the composition, we see a grid of frames, each capturing a different moment of the action. Muybridge meticulously dissected movement into discrete units. The stark contrast between the figure and the neutral background emphasizes the lines and forms created by the athlete's body in motion. This dissection of continuous movement into static frames reflects a broader shift towards scientific analysis and the questioning of traditional modes of representation. The grid format underscores the serial nature of the investigation. Muybridge challenges our understanding of time and perception, inviting us to reconsider the relationship between individual moments and the fluidity of lived experience. It's a fascinating blend of art and science that pushes the boundaries of what photography can reveal about the world around us.