In the heart of Johns Hopkins Hospital’s Interfaith Chapel, the stunning stanchions by Majer Metal Works stand as a testament to artistic innovation and spiritual inclusivity. Each structure, standing six feet tall (182.88 cm), combines laser-cut stainless steel with hand-milled bronze. This blend of modern technology and traditional craftsmanship creates a harmonious design. These stanchions are not only architectural marvels but also functional art pieces. They are designed to accommodate the diverse beliefs represented in this sacred space. Capturing their essence as a photographer was an exciting challenge. It required a versatile approach to showcase their beauty and significance fully.
The Artistic Mastery Behind Each Piece
The stanchions, each meticulously crafted, serve as both a visual and spiritual focal point within the chapel. Their impressive height and intricate design elements reflect the skill and creativity of the artisans at Majer Metal Works. The combination of stainless steel and bronze not only ensures durability but also symbolizes the union of strength and tradition. The laser-cut patterns add a layer of modernity, while the hand-milled bronze offers a timeless quality. These interchangeable stanchions are specifically designed to adapt to the various faith traditions that utilize the chapel, making them a true embodiment of inclusivity and respect for all beliefs.
The Gear Behind the Lens
To capture the grandeur and detail of these stanchions, I relied on the following gear:
- Canon EOS 7D and 5D Mark III: These cameras provided the flexibility and image quality needed to capture the stanchions in various lighting conditions.
- EF 8-15mm f/4L Fisheye USM lens: Perfect for wide-angle shots, this lens allowed me to capture the stanchions within the broader context of the chapel, highlighting their relationship with the surrounding space.
- EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM lens: This lens was ideal for capturing the intricate patterns etched into the metal, bringing out the fine details that emphasize the craftsmanship.
- EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens: I used this lens for close-up shots to showcase the meticulous craftsmanship of the stanchions, focusing on the fine details of the bronze and steel.
These tools enabled me to document the stanchions from various perspectives, ensuring that the final images conveyed both their aesthetic beauty and spiritual significance.
Principal and Lead Designer, Majer Metal Works
Malcom Majer
“His kind directness makes working with him so easy.”
Working with Jiho is an unique experience. He is an extremely engaged photographer, and he works very hard to capture the most compelling images that a particular subject might provide. He doesn’t hold back, but he is also very particular, resulting in images with both quality and dynamism. His work ethic is impressive, and his care in treating people never falters. In addition to shooting images of work in our studio, he has taken images of completed work both after and during installation. In all circumstances, he has successfully engaged the people in the environment, making the process of shooting a difficult object in a busy place a special event rather than an imposition, and the results are visible in the quality of his work.
I would recommend Jiho for any project—his attention to the subject is just as careful when shooting a person, an inanimate object, or even a pile of tools in a messy studio. His kind directness makes working with him so easy.
