union

January 2025 — West Lafayette, Indiana

This photo captures an interior view of a grand hall within the Purdue Memorial Union, characterized by its lofty ceilings, decorative elements, and a display of international flags. In the upper right portion of the image, a long row of national flags from various countries hangs prominently from a high beam, their vibrant colors – reds, greens, blues, whites, and yellows – providing a striking contrast against the muted tones of the architecture. They appear to be hanging in a neat, uniform arrangement. In the background, on the left side, large, ornate stained-glass windows are visible, through which soft sunlight filters, casting a gentle illumination into the space. The windows feature multiple panes, some with subtle color variations, and a classic, grid-like design. Below these windows, a large, dark arched doorway with intricate, possibly wrought-iron, grilles is visible, hinting at another passage or room. The ceiling above is high and features decorative molding. Two ornate chandeliers with multiple light sources hang from the ceiling, adding to the stately ambiance, though their illumination is soft and diffused. The overall lighting in the room is somewhat dim, creating areas of deep shadow, particularly on the right side and in the foreground, which accentuates the light from the windows and the colors of the flags. The scene evokes a sense of historical grandeur and international presence within the PMU.

© 2025 Mukul Agarwal