Conceptual Art Photographer Susan E Evans is the Edge of Humanity Magazine contributor of this photo essay. From the series ‘Flora’. To see Susan’s body of work, click on any photograph.

While many are rushing online to connect, disseminate or “like” I find myself unplugging: wanting to be outside, far away from civilization and political intrigue. Here I am free to wander, explore, dream, and play with light. All images in this series are created in situ through ethical foraging and direct interaction with my environment. Light sensitivity and photosynthesis are at the center of the processes used in this ongoing series.

Generally, glass is used to press plants onto sheets of B&W film which are then exposed to sunlight. The chemicals from the plants mingle with the photosensitive gelatin thus creating the image after being exposed to light. My exposures can range from one hour to several days.

The resulting aura-like images are unique and are the result of different plant attributes…such as woody stems, transparent petals, or juicy berries…also whether the plants are new growth versus old. While usually used in filmmaking I also use the phytogram process: plants are soaked in a solution of calcium carbonate and vitamin C (or alternatively a high concentrate ammonia solution) before being placed onto the film for exposure. At present I am experimenting with a more interventionist approach by pounding plant material directly into the silver gelatin surface prior to exposure.

After exposure, and sometimes after a long delay, each of the films are scanned, many are then chemically fixed with Kodak Rapid Fixer and then those are scanned again. Most of these films are not archivally processed and thus will evolve and change over time, just as the landscapes they reference will evolve and change.

Artist Statement:

My personal connection to the environment shapes and affects my existence and identity. I never quite fit in nor did I live anywhere long enough to feel grounded.  As part of a Forest Service family, I moved from one US National Forest Station to the next, during my childhood. Regardless of geographical location, the forest became my constant, my home, and my place. By surrounding myself with nature I found there are no people to analyze, critique, categorize or judge. I am in the forest…I feel safe there.  

I document environmental experience through immersion in nature, ethical foraging and use of sunlight. I subvert traditional modes of representation. I present an alternative way of telling environmental/ecologically focused histories and stories. I challenge the viewer to consider why the images are made versus trying to force them into any aesthetic genre.

 In order to visualize the lingering yet ephemeral traces of human contact with the environment I use light energy to create chemical energy (photo sensitivity and photosynthesis). The resulting aura-like images make visible the intangibility of this connection and manifest my connection to these places. Each of the images in the series represent a point of contact and when strung together the images form a history, a narrative of interaction.

All images and text © Susan E Evans