Jeff Wall Response Writing

As suggested by the title, the man featured in Jeff Wall’s photograph clearly demonstrates signs of affliction and difficulties at managing “insomnia.” Nonetheless, there is a significant sense of anxiety transmitted both my the man’s figure projected on the floor and the space surrounding him. It almost seems as though this kitchen mimics the man’s internal struggle. This effect is achieved by the way in which all surfaces and furniture is angled in this image, making this environment highly uncomfortable, and the use of a somewhat “unhealthy” color pallet with its yellows and greens. In other words, this man’s uneasiness is displayed by the geometric break in the room’s composition.

A further interpretive analysis of this individual’s situation could directly refer to the frantic expression on this panicking and sweating man’s face, which not only animates the otherwise motionless scene but alludes to a physical or mental burden which has left him under the table. In particular, this image perhaps depicts the aftermath of an encounter that has left the man in distress and, as clearly illustrated by the awkward and confused distribution of props in the kitchen, unable to find comfort. There is also a feeling of hopelessness transmitted by Wall’s photograph, portrayed by the darker section of the floor (potentially the table’s shadow) which appears to be almost swallowing the man’s figure, eternally enveloping him in the obscurity of insomnia. Another important formal component of this photograph is the unusual way in which the corners of the furniture point towards the man, conveying that sense of unease and claustrophobia. The open cupboard and cabinet on the left of the scene could refer to the frenetic activity of searching for a solution to his problem. Moreover, the reflection of the light in the widow gives us some information on the time of this scene (during the night), reminding us again of this psychological state of unrest. Nevertheless, with particular reference to this man’s story beyond this photograph, we might consider the causes of insomnia itself. Such literary works as Shakespeare’s Macbeth correlates insomnia with the feelings of guilt and regret. Perhaps this man has committed a crime and is now suffering the consequences of his actions, or, on a more innocent level, is a victim of someone else’s animosity. Yet, if we place this artwork in the context of now, insomnia can be equally related to anxiety, stress, pressure of work, financial collapse and more.

Whether this is a real or imagined story is up to perception. What can be nevertheless extracted from thus photograph is its cinematic quality and resemblance to film stills. This is conveyed by the unusual placement of the photograph on a Lightbox, which refers to the qualities of the screen. This gives the image an artificial, manipulated and fantastical narrative and environment. In this manner, Jeff Wall’s Insomnia looks like a paused movie, capturing a moment which has a past and future. On the other hand, the ordinary appearance of this small kitchen could demonstrate the artist’s wish to direct our attention towards what happens to the common people (those of no particular importance) undergo such torments. This way, Wall is able to place his narrative photograph in a more universal context, which transcends culture, class and success. In other words, this man can be perceived as a physical and visual embodiment of us all.