Teodor Bădărău | Substack Working notes and materials from an ongoing photographic practice focused on context, seriality, and the ways images take shape over time. Click to read Teodor Bădărău, a Substack publication. Launche...

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The fourth image is presented as a triptych photograph, showcasing various views of a rural road intersection. The left panel includes a road curving to the right, with a building labeled "AUTOTRANS" and some parked vehicles, hinting at human activity and commerce. The center panel focuses on a straight road with a median and a visible traffic sign indicating a speed limit of 50 km/h—an element of order and regulation within the rural landscape. The right panel displays the road curving to the left, bordered by a field of crops, providing a connection to nature and agricultural settings. Aesthetically, the segmentation into three panels creates a structured yet dynamic narrative, inviting viewers to explore the intersection from different perspectives. Philosophically, the image can represent movement, transitions, or even connectivity between human development and nature. Linguistically, relevant keywords include "triptych," "AUTOTRANS," "intersection," "median," "crops," "speed limit," "rural," and "commerce."

The fifth image depicts a three-panel panoramic view of a rural road intersection. The road splits into two paths—one curving to the left and the other to the right. At the center of the intersection is a triangular traffic island featuring a sign that indicates a mandatory direction to the right. The surrounding landscape consists of open fields, likely planted with crops such as corn, and distant hills under a cloudy, subdued sky. The road signs dominate the scene, directing traffic and marking the location's functionality. Aesthetically, the composition captures a sense of stillness and simplicity, with the cloudy sky complementing the muted tones of the landscape. The contrast between the cultivated fields and the engineered intersection reflects a tension or harmony between human influence and nature. Philosophically, the image may suggest themes of choice, movement, and the quiet persistence of rural life. Linguistically, keywords might include "intersection," "traffic island," "fields," "cloudy sky," "rural," "choice," and "navigation."

The proposed exhibition transforms these scenes into intimate reflections on choice and coexistence, celebrating the subtle beauty of transition. You are encouraged to find meaning in the quiet and stillness, discovering the resonance of landscapes that, like life’s moments, exist in flux.

The image depicts a three-part panoramic view of a rural road intersection. The road splits into two paths: one curving to the left and the other to the right. The scene is surrounded by fields, likely cultivated for crops. Road signs are visible at the intersection, adding a navigational element to the image. The overcast sky contributes a subdued, almost contemplative atmosphere, and hills or mountains are faintly visible in the background. Philosophically, the image could evoke reflections on decision-making or life's crossroads—metaphors tied to the split paths. Aesthetically, the use of Kodak Portra film creates a nostalgic and textured quality, with soft tones adding depth to the composition. Linguistically, keywords for analysis could include "intersection," "split paths," "fields," "overcast," "signs," "hills," and "Kodak Portra."

The image provides a detailed panoramic view of a rural road intersection captured with an analog camera. Here's what stands out: the central panel showcases the split in the road, with one path curving left and the other right. The triangular median at the junction has a small traffic sign and a bollard, grounding the scene in human presence. To the left of the road lies a cornfield, presenting a pastoral and agricultural touch, while the right side reveals houses and trees, indicating a settled, lived-in space. The overcast sky envelops the image in a muted calmness, which might evoke feelings of introspection or serenity. Aesthetically, the Kodak Portra film borders add a touch of nostalgic artistry, emphasizing texture and soft tones. Philosophically, the road split could symbolize choices or duality—how we often stand at intersections in life, deciding where to go. Linguistically, keywords like "intersection," "median," "cornfield," "houses," "overcast," "Kodak Portra," and "nostalgia" might be relevant.

The image displays a three-part panoramic view of a road intersection in a rural or semi-rural area. The road splits into two distinct directions, divided by a central island. Visible road signs suggest navigation and human presence, while a white van parked to the right hints at activity in the area. The surrounding environment includes vegetation, flat terrain, and some buildings, contributing to a tranquil yet purposeful atmosphere. The overcast sky creates a muted and calm mood. Aesthetically, the analog film framing adds a nostalgic touch, while the composition's balance between the natural and built environment sparks a feeling of harmony. Philosophically, the image might evoke thoughts about transitions or choices, with the divided road representing potential paths in life. Linguistically, keywords could include "intersection," "divided road," "van," "vegetation," "buildings," "overcast," "analog film," and "nostalgia."

The crossroads serve as metaphors for life's pivotal moments, where decisions shape the course of experience. These spaces, both ordinary and profound, dissolve the boundaries between action and contemplation, inviting for a pause and connect with their own sense of place and direction.

In the exhibited series, Discrete Narratives, my body becomes a seismograph of space, recording the tension between the rigidity of infrastructure and the fluidity of perception through movement.

I am interested in understanding the mechanisms through which certain elements of everyday life become more visible and gain greater significance than others. My artistic practice investigates how the visible and the invisible shape our perception of reality and how images contribute to this process

The image shows a triptych of three photographs, each depicting a concrete pathway flanked by large rocks leading out into the sea. The sky is clear and blue, and the sea is calm. The central photograph shows the pathway directly from the middle, while the left and right photographs show the pathway from slightly different angles. The right photograph includes a few people under red umbrellas on the right side of the pathway, suggesting a beach or recreational area. This image is interesting because it captures the symmetry and perspective of the pathway extending into the horizon, creating a visually appealing and balanced composition.

Sketch from the ongoing project “Empty moments” (2023 - ). Black Sea Coast, August 2024
badarau.eu
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The image shows two side-by-side photographs of a long, narrow path that extends into the distance, bordered by large rocks on either side. The path appears to be a breakwater or jetty extending into the sea, with the left photograph showing a closer view of the rocks and the right photograph focusing more on the concrete path itself. The sea is visible on both sides of the path, with waves gently lapping against the rocks. This image is interesting as it captures the structure and design of a coastal engineering feature, highlighting the use of large rocks to protect the path from the sea's erosion and the smooth, straight concrete path for walking or maintenance access.

Sunday post Teaser! ✨
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The image shows three side-by-side photographs of a metal pedestrian bridge with railings, leading towards a group of buildings in the background. The bridge is situated over a grassy area with some water visible on the left and right sides of the bridge. The sky is overcast, and the buildings in the background appear to be residential or office buildings. The three images are nearly identical, showing the bridge from slightly different angles. This image captures the perspective and symmetry of the bridge, as well as the urban environment it is situated in.

The image shows three side-by-side photographs of a pedestrian bridge. The bridge has a metal walkway and railings, and it spans over a grassy area. In the background, there are buildings and power lines visible under a cloudy sky. The perspective of the photos is from the start of the bridge, looking straight ahead towards the end of the bridge and the buildings beyond. The image is interesting as it captures the symmetry and perspective of the bridge, highlighting its structure and the surrounding environment.

The image is a collage of six photographs, arranged in two rows of three. Each photograph showcases a metal pedestrian bridge with a grated walkway and railings on both sides. The bridge spans over a grassy area, with some water visible in the top row of images. In the background of the top row, there are several multi-story buildings, while the bottom row shows a more rural setting with fewer buildings and power lines. The sky is overcast in all the photographs, and the images appear to be taken from different angles and distances along the same bridge.

Metaphors of a Magnifico
W. Stevens
Twenty men crossing a bridge,
Into a village,
Are twenty men crossing twenty bridges,
Into twenty villages,
Or one man
Crossing a single bridge into a village.
. . .
Twenty men crossing a bridge,
Into a village,
Are
Twenty men crossing a bridge
Into a village.

The image depicts a metal pedestrian bridge with railings on both sides, leading towards a residential area with several multi-story apartment buildings in the background. The bridge has a textured surface and appears to be slightly worn, with some dirt and footprints visible. The surrounding area includes patches of grass and a small body of water beneath the bridge. The sky is overcast, suggesting a cloudy day.

Sunday post Teaser! ✨
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„Public at political rally” – Unirii Square, Iasi - Romania, July 2012; print on vinyl banner, part of the BA project. (Now it’s used as a protective cover for my father’s tool storage area – April 2024)
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The image shows a group of people standing together outdoors, possibly in a public space or at an event. The background includes a multi-story building on the left side and some trees and a clear sky. The people are dressed in casual clothing, and some are holding objects like water bottles. The image captures a moment of gathering or assembly, which could be relevant for understanding social events, public gatherings, or community activities.

Thursday post Teaser! ✨
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The image shows a serene lakeside scene with a wooden dock extending into the water on the right side. The lake is calm with gentle ripples, and there is a reflection of the sun or moon on the water's surface. In the background, there is a dense forest with trees that appear to be in autumn colors. The foreground includes some tall grasses or reeds. The image captures a peaceful and picturesque natural setting, highlighting the beauty of the landscape and the tranquility of the lake.

An old, rustic wooden pier extends into a body of water, likely a lake or river. The pier appears weathered and uneven, with some of the wooden planks missing or misaligned. In the background, there is a forested area with trees that have lost their leaves, suggesting it might be autumn or winter. The sky is clear with a hint of blue, and the overall scene is calm and serene. The image captures a tranquil, natural setting with a sense of solitude and timelessness.

A serene lakeside scene with a wooden dock or pier extending into the water on the left side. The water is calm, reflecting the surrounding environment. In the background, there is a dense forest with trees that appear to be in early spring or late autumn, as they have sparse foliage. The sky is clear with a hint of blue, suggesting it is either early morning or late afternoon. There is a noticeable circular light reflection or lens flare in the center of the image, adding an interesting visual element.

Film photography: what you see is not necessarily what you get!
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The image is a black and white photograph depicting a series of wooden posts emerging from a body of water. The water is calm, creating clear reflections of the posts. In the background, there is a dense fog that obscures the horizon and any distant objects, giving the scene a mysterious and tranquil atmosphere. The posts vary in height and are irregularly spaced, adding to the natural and somewhat eerie feel of the image. The overall composition is minimalist, focusing on the contrast between the solid posts and the soft, misty background. This image is interesting due to its serene and contemplative mood, as well as the interplay between the natural elements and their reflections.

What's coming next Wednesday? ✨
If you're curious to discover my other projects, don't hesitate to check out https://badarau.eu/

A black and white film strip containing 3 frames. Each frame depicts a different scene within an indoor setting. The first frame shows a door that is slightly ajar. The second frame shows a wall with a mirror hanging on it. The third frame shows a television on a stand in front of a window with curtains. The third frame shows a cat sitting on a radiator in front of a window with curtains. The cat is looking outside. The film strip is labeled 'ILFORD XP2 SUPER' at the top and bottom edges.

A black and white film strip containing 3 frames. Each frame depicts a different scene within an indoor setting. The first frame shows a door that is slightly ajar. The second frame shows a wall with a mirror hanging on it. The third frame shows a television on a stand in front of a window with curtains. The third frame shows a cat sitting on a radiator in front of a window with curtains. The cat is looking outside. The film strip is labeled 'ILFORD XP2 SUPER' at the top and bottom edges.

A black and white film strip containing 3 frames. Each frame depicts a different scene within an indoor setting. The first frame shows a door that is slightly ajar. The second frame shows a wall with a mirror hanging on it. The third frame shows a television on a stand in front of a window with curtains. The third frame shows a cat sitting on a radiator in front of a window with curtains. The cat is looking outside. The film strip is labeled 'ILFORD XP2 SUPER' at the top and bottom edges.

A black and white photograph of a room. The main elements include a television with a bright screen, a dresser with drawers, a mattress with a textured pattern, and a window with floral-patterned curtains. The photograph appears to be taken using a film camera, as indicated by the film strip borders and the text 'ILFORD XP2 SUPER' at the top. The film strip also shows the frame numbers '14' and '13A' at the bottom. The room is dimly lit, with the television being the primary source of light. Some light is coming through the window, partially illuminating the room.

Of Senses and Screens - presence and projection, the quiet tension of how we see and feel.

A black and white photograph of a cat partially hidden behind a curtain. The cat is peeking out from behind the curtain, with only its head and part of its body visible. The cat is wearing a collar and is positioned next to a window, through which an out-of-focus outdoor scene can be seen. The photograph has a film strip border, indicating it was taken with an analog camera. The film strip has markings such as '34A' and '35' at the bottom. The image captures a candid and somewhat mysterious moment of the cat peering out, combined with the nostalgic feel of film photography.

Sunday post Teaser! ✨
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Growth won't save us YouTube video by Garys Economics

Growth won't save us

www.youtube.com/shorts/kEpPl...

Two identification cards placed on a desk near a keyboard and a computer mouse. One card is fully visible, while the other is partially covered by a piece of paper. The fully visible card has a corner cut off, revealing a section of another image underneath that completes the missing part of the card. Both cards have a grid with numbers 1 to 5 repeated in rows and columns. The partially covered card has four circular stamps at the top, each with the text 'VOTAT' followed by a date. The dates on the stamps are '26 mai 2019,' '09.06.2024,' '26.11.2020,' and '01.12.2024.' The visible card also has a similar grid with numbers 1 to 5 but no stamps. In the background, there's a keyboard with black keys and white letters, and a computer mouse resting next to it. The right arrow key on the keyboard has a small stick man figure drawn on it.

My new and old ID cards side by side. The cut corner of my old ID marks its 'expiration,' yet my identity remains unchanged. The world demands proof of my existence!

The lost "Thank you"

"🤍 Dear Florina, 🤍 🤍
We love you very much. We really enjoy the way you teach us. Thank you 🍂 for all the opportunities.
🤍 🤍 🤍 🤍 🤍
With love,
Class 3A"

Derrida's "Margins of Philosophy" examines the overlooked significance of page margins, which, while appearing empty, actually contain traces of readers engagement. This exploration raises questions about the nature of space and its existence independent of perception
https://badarau.eu/on-the-mar…

A scan from a 35 mm film strip, presenting a composed image of a building with a tiled roof and several small windows. The building has a beige and brown color scheme with stone detailing at the base. There are three sections visible, each with a window. The middle section has an air conditioning unit installed below the window. In front of the building, there is a paved walkway and a metal railing, possibly for accessibility.

This project investigates the space outside the exhibition, the relationship between prior authorial presence and initial viewer absence. It constructs a paradoxical network that intertwines solitude, alienation, nihilism with interventionism and experiential conceptualism
badarau.eu/on-the-margi...

A scan of a 35mm film strip featuring a composed image of an urban scene. The scene showcases a large multi-story building in the background, a smaller yellow-roofed building, and several parked cars. A fence with a gate is visible, along with rocks and bushes in the foreground. The overcast sky suggests a cloudy day, while the film strip edges add a nostalgic touch to the composition.

The purpose is to investigate image subsistence, focusing on the roles of the photographer, camera, and viewer. This reveals a intersectionality, highlighting the fracture between "reality" and representation shaped by subjective perceptions and experiences.

badarau.eu/on-the-margi...

Scan from a 35mm film strip features a composed image of a residential or institutional building with a pale yellow facade. In the foreground, a white car is parked on a grassy area, while to the right, a large abstract metal sculpture is prominently displayed. The background includes leafless trees and a fence, suggesting a colder season.

Through a critical examination of photographic sequence and the metaphysical implications of expanding images on analogue film, a visual installation was created that transforms space into movement, producing neutral fragments that dissolve into a liquid environment.

badarau.eu/on-the-margi...

A triptych view of a sport school hall building with large windows and metal framework, taken through a fence. The fence has vertical and horizontal bars, and there is a grassy area between the fence and the building. In the background, residential buildings are visible. The image is a scanned film strip, indicated by the film sprocket holes and markings along the bottom edge

The visual narrative reveals a reality where many spaces are dominated by asphalt surfaces unsuitable for sports, with locked gates and tall fences restricting access. Schools replacing traditional fields with indoor halls further limit opportunities for interaction.

badarau.eu/between-the-...

A construction warning sign stands in front of a green mesh fence. The white background features an image of a person digging, clearly signaling that construction or road work is ahead. The scene is partially obscured by lush foliage. The edges of the image are framed by a film strip border, displaying some wear and tear from light leaks.

This view, composed of multiple film frames, showcases a scene featuring a sturdy metal fence and gate in the foreground, with a multi-storied building rising in the background. The fence, crafted from metal bars and wire mesh, adds a sense of structure to the image. On the left side, a tree provides a touch of nature, partially concealing a red and white car nestled behind its branches. In front of the fence, the ground is a mix of lush grass and scattered gravel, hinting at an abandoned construction site.

This sequence of four frames from a film strip captures a fenced area framed by lush greenery and buildings in the background. Behind the fence, there are clear signs of an abandoned construction site. The edges of each frame are adorned with the classic perforations that characterize film strips, along with numbers and markings that reveal frame numbers and other technical details.

During the communist era, public school sports fields were vibrant hubs of camaraderie, where friends and neighbors played football with makeshift goals of stones or backpacks, defining game times by class breaks or the onset of dusk.

badarau.eu/between-the-...

A film strip featuring three frames that capture an outdoor scene with a multi-story building, a tree, a fence, and a basketball court in the background. The building has visible windows and a door, while the middle frame shows the tree partially obscuring the view of the building. A fence runs horizontally across the bottom of the frames, and in the background, two basketball hoops are visible on the court.

A film strip displaying three frames of an outdoor area. The first frame on the left shows a basketball court with a hoop on the left, surrounded by buildings and trees. The middle frame features a handball goalpost on a sports field, with additional buildings and trees in the background. In the rightmost frame, there’s a pathway next to a fenced area, lined with trees and parked cars along the side.

In Eastern Europe, the most accessible venues for sports are the open-air sports fields of public schools. "Between the Lines" focuses on these social interaction spaces, emphasizing those located in former working-class neighborhoods built during the communist era.

badarau.eu/between-the-...

A film strip featuring four frames that capture an outdoor sports court. The court is marked with white boundary lines and surrounded by trees and buildings in the background. The edges of the film strip show sprocket holes, along with some numbers and markings at the bottom.

A film strip showcasing three frames of an outdoor multifunctional sports court with a bright red surface and white boundary lines. The court is enclosed by a tall wire fence, with trees visible in the background. Sprocket holes run along the edges of the film strip, along with some text markings.

The “sports field” is much more than the sum of its constituent elements, also being defined by rules independent of external reality, by its own temporality, and by the capacity to influence reality beyond the demarcation lines.

badarau.eu/between-the-...