Aurora Borealis / Chelsea Ramirez

Aurora Borealis


By Chelsea Ramirez

For this cyanotype, I used two shells and two crystals. I placed them on the Mylar sheet that covered the cyanotype and, with a China Marker, drew many components of the deep sea, such as jellyfish and small organisms. After the cyanotype was exposed and dried, I used soft pastels and gel pens to draw on the cyanotype paper. The contrast between the dark objects on the cyanotype paper and the luminescent drawings created dimension. The brighter colors come forth to the viewer's eye, while the darker colors seem to recede into the darkness. Free, organic forms create an asymmetrical composition, reflecting the imperfections of living organisms.

The deep, dark sea holds many fascinating creatures, creatures that are calm and silent, living their lives. I am intrigued by these life forms who do not have a care in the world. I believe I am like them too, silent and gliding through the difficulties I face. The deep sea, where no people go, is a creative space where the membrane known as my happiness floats idly by.