The Memento Mori flower portrait is a modern visual interpretation of a classic theme: “Remember Your Mortality”. Artist/Director Jihye with art director Trevor Gilley and DOP Matt Infante shot over 6,700 photos with exactly 2,943 photos chosen for this video timelaps. It is important to note that no special effects were added in post-prod and that all the transformations were captured in camera. The macro timelapses captured various flowers absorbing color. Interestingly, the flowers revealed their innermost composition during the process. Watch the beautiful video below.
What is Memento Mori?
For centuries, Memento Mori art and literature have reminded its audience that they will die. Some credit the origin to ancient Rome: as a general was enjoying a victory parade for a won battle, his servant would follow closely behind and whisper a warning: “Look behind you! Remember that you are nothing but a man. Remember that you will die.” More on Wikipedia
Words from Jihye:
” As I’ve gotten older, I noticed myself getting more self-conscious about death and feeling less permanent. Ironically, the realization has been all right and not entirely bleak because shit, I’m still breathing. This experimental project serves as a visual interpretation of such thought and is my own servant that reminds me to live well because I’m not sure when I will be gone.”
Directed by JIHYE
Director of Photography: Matt Infante
Art Director: Trevor Gilley
Music: “Younger” by Seinabo Sey
Equipment Used: Canon 60D // Sigma 17-50mm 2.8 // Rokinon 85mm 1.4 // Canon 24-105L F4 // Kino Diva 200 // Litepanels RM-FT Ringlite // Macro Extension Tubes
