art

IN MEDias Res -A reimagined Recycled book

| Zoé

The concept” In Medias Res”began with the intention of creating recycled paper to print my final image on. As I delved deeper into the history of paper production andconsidered more sustainable options, the work evolved to explore the impact ofdeforestation, particularly how colonization and time have led to the devastation of old-growth forests, reducing them to treeless horizons to meet the demand for paper, wood and farming. Thankfully, there has been a shift towards more sustainable practices and the government have inforced  that logging of native forests to cease. The alternative is the faster  growing  pine  which is depicted in the final lenticular piece of a pineforest and the tree juxtaposed  against an empty horizon and Koala –the Koala is  used to signify the impact the pine forests have with native animals and their  habitat and food.

The recycled paper used in this piece was sourced from the cut outs of the left side of the  book and also the trials and errors. transforming it into a new work of art.
All the images  were capturedwith a 35mm camera and developed sustainably using either coffee or plants , reinforcing the theme ofsustainability.

This piece suggests that waste can be reimagined as a resource, turning
the old into something new and valuable. It also reflects on the decline of knowledge
and stories traditionally shared through books due to digital transformations, raising questions about the fate of books from the past and their place in our future.
Central to this work is a visual narrative. The cross-section of a tree, gradually
diminishing in size and cut from various images of forests within the book’s pages,
mimics the rings of a tree, symbolizing the passage of time. It evokes the sensation of
walking through a forest .

The book is displayed open in the middleof the story (in medias res)
As we stand in the middle of this story (In Medias Res) , with the possibility of regeneration embrace new practices learnt from the trials and errors . This piece serves as a reminder that we are at a pivotal moment—a time of change and new possibilities, where the past and future converge to hopefully shape a more sustainable world.

Two photographic series that explore the Transformation from Plastic Bottles to textiles

| Zoé

I created two series of photos exploring The transformation of plastic bottles one explores the different views and perspectives of the plastic bottle form encouraging the viewer to look from different different perspectives and angles and see the form differently and the other series of in-camera double exposure using the plastic bottles and transformed textile as a lens. Both series were developed sustainably using developer made out of coffee and delve into the mesmerizing transformation of plastic bottles into sheer curtain textiles. The intricate process unfolds as the bottles are meticulously shredded, repurposed into delicate strings, and skillfully woven into textiles. Both series explores and demonstrates that PET bottles should be considered as a valuable resource not waste.

PET plastic is favored globally due to its exceptional performance qualities and high recyclability. When heated and molded, PET can take on numerous forms, with plastic water and beverage bottles being the most recognizable. These bottles provide a hygienic, safe, and convenient way to package drinks.
The low melting point of PET, in comparison to materials like glass and aluminum, allows for easy and sustainable recycling, creating a closed loop system. Additionally, PET bottles can be repurposed into a wide range of products, including fabric for curtains, demonstrating their value beyond being discarded as waste. By exploring the various forms of these bottles shadow,silhouette and the processes involved in transforming PET bottles from shredded plastic to final products, it becomes evident that these bottles should be considered a valuable resource with immense potential.

Through the lens of these images, we are enticed to explore how the view of nature is altered when observed through this unusual material. The interplay of light and shadow, as the silhouettes of the bottles are layered with scenic views of the environment, creates a thought-provoking and visually compelling narrative. Encouraging us to reflect on the impact of our consumption habits, this series serves as a poignant reminder of the beauty that can emerge from sustainability and creativity intert.

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

FORM-A DIFFERENT VIEW

Camo-Double Exposure – 1997

| Zoé

In 1997  I was studying BA- Sculpture and photography at University. I dont have many photos of the creations I made and only found the above image yesterday.

The pants below were for one of the subjects I did where we had constant assignments and presented our creations every couple of weeks. I’m unsure if we chose the theme or it was allocated by the teacher though I do remember the theme was Camouflage.

I made alot of wearable art for this class . The camouflage pants displayed all my photos .

The double exposures images were created by initially finding images of animals of owls, wolfs, tigers from magazines from memory and then capturing self portraits doing similar poses of the animals with my 35mm film camera.Looking at them I see similar themes, ideas and concepts that still interest me today though back then I  didn’t use Photoshop though I was very resourceful

In those days the photocopier was my favourite tool and I made transparent acetate copies of my photos  then over layed them over the animal images and made a photocopy of the combined images finally  transferring the images  onto material using another of my favourite tools which was a fabric transfer medium.

I presented the pants suspended from the ceiling with a pile of leaves I drew on underneath… the designs on the leaves was inspired by research into first nation people who created material inspired by the design on leaves.

In the wilderness of life, I stand tall,

Camouflage pants made from faces, I wear them all.

Each face tells a story, a journey of its own,

But together, they protect me, like an army unknown.

A chameleon in the wild, I transform and adapt,

My pants, a canvas of art, a double exposure map.

The faces, they blend, with animals they entwine,

A fusion of souls, a manifestation divine.

Faces and animals intertwine,

In a world where art and nature combine,

Double exposure captures the essence,

Of creatures and humans in coalescence.

Whiskers sprout from cheeks once fair,

But in the midst of this wild display,

Dust to Dust- From the Series We Are Star Dust

| Zoé

It is a mind-boggling realization that we are composed of the same materials that make up stars, planets, and galaxiesThe revelation of our cosmic connection dawned upon me during a time of personal loss and contemplation. After the passing of my father, I found solace in observing and documenting the decomposition of flowers, witnessing the cycle of life and death. As I watched these once vibrant blooms wither away, I couldn’t help but contemplate the impermanence of life and the intricate web of existence.Through documenting the natural process of decay, I experienced a profound sense of catharsis, a release of emotions that allowed me to confront my grief. It was in these moments of reflection that I realized our physical bodies are not confined to this earthly realm but are intrinsically linked to the vast cosmos. We are part of a grand tapestry, connected to everything around us.Motivated by this personal experience, I embarked on a quest for a deeper understanding of our existence. Drawn to the ideas of reincarnation and rebirth, I delved into ancient philosophies and modern scientific theories that shed light on the nature of our being. It is fascinating to consider the possibility that our individual atoms and elements are recycled and redistributed throughout the universe, giving rise to new life forms and experiences.At the core of this concept lies the understanding that every atom in our bodies was once part of a star, forged in the fiery depths of stellar nurseries. These atoms, the building blocks of life, have journeyed through time and space, coming together to form the intricate biological systems that allow us to exist. In a very literal sense, we are made of stardust.

In twilight’s embrace, where dreams softly entwine,
I’ll paint you a portrait, a tale so divine.
Where flowers, once vibrant, now wither and decay,
As stars, like tears, fall, in celestial array.
 
In the realm of blossoms, where life dances free,
Petals bloom in colors, as sweet as can be.
But time weaves its threads, fate’s cruel, restless gust,
And innocence, like flowers, fades into dust.
 
The velvety rose, once blood red and flame,
Now whispers of longing and forgotten name.
Its petals, once fragrant, now crumble and fall,
As stars, teardrops glisten, in night’s cosmic sprawl.
 
Oh, witness the floral tapestry’s descent,
As nature exhales, its fleeting lament.
Each petal a memory, delicate and frail,
As stars, shimmering crystals, begin to exhale.
 
Gone is the splendor, the garden’s grand array,
Yet artistry flourishes in this grand decay.
For as flowers decompose, returning to earth,
The essence of beauty is granted rebirth.
 
And whilst stars shed their teardrops, in mournful delight,
Human hearts gather courage, their souls taking flight.
For within this fleeting beauty, we find solace and trust,
In this dance of decay, where the cosmos adjusts.
 
So, let the flowers wither, let stars continue to weep,
We’ll embrace their transformation, our sorrows shall keep.
For in this juxtaposition, where beauty meets despair,
Our souls are awakened, by the tapestry we wear.
 

A conceptual photo essay of supply shortage of carbon dioxide .

| Zoé 
In today's world, we often take for granted the availability of everyday products, assuming an endless supply of resources and raw materials to create them. However, recent events, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, have highlighted the fragility of our supply chains and the impact of shortages on various industries. Throughout history, shortages have been a recurring theme, shaping economies and industries in different ways.
Transitioning from my previous series, "Beyond the Blue Sea," which delved into the effects of supply shortages on color film and Aquamarine pigment, I have since focused my attention on the scarcity of carbonated water.In  February and March this year -carbonated water, a ubiquitous beverage enjoyed by many, produced by infusing water with carbon dioxide. The history of carbonated water dates back to the late 18th century when pioneers like Thomas Henry and J. J. Schweppe developed methods for its large-scale production.
Carbon dioxide, the key component in carbonating water, is not just a contributor to the beverage's effervescence but also a significant greenhouse gas. Sources of carbon dioxide emissions range from the burning of fossil fuels to natural processes like volcanic eruptions and decomposing of animals  Interestingly, the oceans play a crucial role in absorbing a portion of the carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere.
The recent shortage of carbonated water due to a lack of carbon dioxide supply in Australia highlights the interconnectedness of production processes and the impact of global supply chain disruptions. With only two major suppliers of carbon dioxide in the country, interruptions in the local sources and international freight issues have led to a scarcity of carbonated water on the east coast of Australia.
During my exploration of the carbonated water production process, I was fascinated by the simplicity of infusing water with carbon dioxide and the crucial role this greenhouse gas plays in creating the beverage we often take for granted. This newfound knowledge has also made me reflect on the challenges of addressing our energy needs in a sustainable manner.
While there is no perfect solution to meeting our energy demands, every action we take carries the potential for both positive and negative consequences. As we navigate through supply shortages and environmental concerns, it is essential to consider the long-term effects of our decisions on both the industry and the planet.
In conclusion, the shortage of carbonated water and carbon dioxide serves as a reminder of the delicate balance within our supply chains and the need for greater awareness and research on sustainable production processes. By understanding the complexities of these shortages and seeking innovative solutions, we can work towards a more resilient and environmentally-conscious future across all industries.
The series Co2 is a series of in camera double exposures developed using carbonated water, charcoal (instead of coal)  and weeds collected at the power station instead of the traditional toxic and hazoudous chemicals.The series is and exploration in understanding  carbon dioxide.

Beyond the Sea- An augmented reality photo encaustic series.

| Zoé

 Beyond the Sea, is an ongoing series of digitally painted  black and white seascapes.Coated with a mixture of beeswax and tree resin -known as encaustic. Giving them luxurious, textured finish

With in each   photo I have  digitally painted the water with different hues of the illustrious pigment, ultramarine.As a lover of art and history, I am fascinated by the origins of paint ,Ultramarine  was traditionally made by grinding down lapis lazuli and derives its name from the Latin Ultramarinus which means  ‘Beyond the Sea’. – Hence the title of the series

During Covid pandemic ultramarine blue became a precious commodity with a limited supply and obtaining blue paint at the time was difficult. This as well as the shortage of Raw materials to produce colour photographic film and the difficulty of buying highlighted to me the state our resources are in and inspired me to create this series . I intentionally chose to display this captivating colour bl;ue in a digital form, showcasing its rarity and significance.

Beyond the Sea showcases the beauty of nature and the remarkable history of a prized pigment combined with  thought-provoking images which intend to stimulate and educate, instilling a desire for safeguarding and reverence of our planet’s wonders 

The Photos also activate an augmented reality filter which displays a 3 Dimensional layered animation I made with poetry composed by artificial intelligence.

To view the augmented reality filter : Use a computer to display Photo of Leave the Light On and scan the QRcode below with your phone to use the filter from my Instagram.View the Photo come to life through your phone.

To see more of Beyond the Sea series of Augmented Reality Encaustic photos they are currently being exhibited at Bourvardia Cocktail Bar Melbourne till the end of June.

Favourite Digital Photographs of 2022

| Zoé

Before I Share my favourite colour film photographs I took last year I thought I would do a post of my digital photographs particularly photos I created in response to 52 Frames a great weekly photography challenge I discovered last year .

I’ve attempted a few 52 week challenges over the years and have never succeeded this one was no different however i did get to 38 weeks before forgetting to do the photo and not continuing on.

I only realised when going through the photos to upload how many black and White Photos I took for the challenges . I’ve also added the theme

I’ve always enjoyed responding to briefs both professionally and with personal photography projects. However this year between work and focussing on creating a more cohesive portfolio and series of images I’m not committing to anything more than a post a week on here. You can also find me on instagram if you want to see more.

Low Key Lighting
Light-painting
Pattern
Activity
Lamp
Leading Lines
Negative Space
Triangle
Nature
Emotion

Favourite Black and White Film Photos 2022.

| Zoé

I am beginning the Year with my first post of 2023 on my neglected website by sharing 10 of my favourite black and white film photos i took in 2022.

I got back into film photography in 2021 and i enjoy experimenting with different techniques particularly double exposure , I develop the black and white film at home. I also shoot colour as well and may try and develop it at home too.I hope to create a portfolio of images either for an exhibition or a book this year.

I will also be updating my website and hope to post at least once a week and engage more in the community.

Looking forward to the year ahead.

Zoe xo

Sunday Stills

| Zoé

This weeks Sundays Still Challenge is a colour focussing on the colours quartz and diamond.

I have a few crystals I have collected over the years and was fortunate enough to find a crystal vein on our property years ago and collected alot of quartz crystals which unfortunately i have since misplaced.

Though as quartz and diamonds are mainly translucent and sparkly I’ve used images ive taken with my crystal ball using it as a lens to see through rather than focussing on its colour.

The crystal Ball causes refraction and turns the World up side Down

And because i feel i have gone completely of topic I have also included a moving image I took of my crystal ball and a tree with my 3D – 35mm camera which has 3 different lenses that simultaneously capture 3 different images of 3 different perspectives of the subject and when combined appear 3d.

Have a great week everyone