Memory Tree

My work explores the cyclical nature of trees how my mind personifies them in an attempt to understand them better. I find that trees are a lot like people because they wear their heart on their sleeve so to speak. They experience things like growth and decay that physically manifest like losing a branch or leaves changing color. Each time I revisit a tree, it seems as if it looks exactly the same because my mind assembles all these memories to recreate who this tree is and what it’s supposed to look like.

I illustrated that idea by using various types of paper in one image. Each type of paper represents a memory of a tree; all part of the same photograph yet slightly different in texture, color and exposure time. I used liquid emulsion and chose papers that were more natural in color and consistency to emphasize the fragility and impermanence of nature to contrast with imagery that displayed the strength and sturdiness I’ve come to appreciate about trees.