Learn about a work of art by Henry Holmes Smith
Circles of Light
about 1946
Bloomington, Illinois, United States
Gelatin silver print
Henry Holmes Smith (American, 1909–1986)
Image: 18.4 × 23.6 cm (7 1/4 × 9 5/16 in.), Sheet: 20.4 × 25.4 cm (8 1/16 × 10 in.)
Gift of the Smith Family Trust, © J. Paul Getty Trust
Look at this cool photo with four circles of light! But wait, these aren’t just random shapes. The artist, Henry Holmes Smith, played with light using special wire grids. The result? It’s like a magic trick for our eyes—the light and shadows make cone shapes and grid patterns.
Imagine you have a flashlight, and you shine it through different shapes. That’s what Henry did with his art. He reminds us that even simple things, like light and shadows, can be turned into amazing art with a dash of creativity.
Next time sunlight comes through your window, pay attention to the shadows it makes. These are hidden shapes waiting to be discovered!
Look closely at Circles of Light.
Explore Circles of Light
Circles of Light diagram with wire grid, circles and light source © J. Paul Getty Trust
A dark image cast on a surface by people or things blocking a light.
A type of energy that travels in waves and allows us to see in the dark. Light waves can come from the sun, light bulbs, and fire.
A ‘light drawing’ or a picture made by recording an image on a surface sensitive to light.
A strong light used to illuminate one person or small area.
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