Man Made Nature

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Jason C.

• Artist Statement

  In my artwork "Man-Made Nature", I wanted to represent a synthesis, yet contrast of elements and ideas. In the foreground is the birdhouse, whose slight orange-ish brown contrasts the vibrant green background. The focus on the birdhouse also blurs the background. Yet, there is also the green moss and plants on the birdhouse that somewhat blends into the background. This becomes an allegory about how the birdhouse itself is man-made, and artificial, to simulate a natural setting for birds to rest and eat. However, while being man-made, its materials are still made of wood, so it is part of nature. This paradox is represented in the title, "Man-Made Nature", where humans try to create and simulate nature, however, we all know that it is not actual or true nature.

  This theme also connects to the overall theme of destruction and how humans destroy nature and yet later try to recreate nature, which seems like contradicting ideas. In the end, this is asking the viewer a question instead of giving an opinion, and it offers different perspectives on this theme. My overall goal in this work is to represent this theme, though it is also an aesthetically pleasing photograph that I thought looked great.

• Creative Statement

  Creativity is simply the expression of whatever emotions that are unique to you and should be a result of your thoughts and experiences. In my life, I am able to express many things that I have in my mind and portray them in a beautiful way.