Floral II explores the relationship between beauty and distortion. I was inspired by a quote I heard at a young age that has since stuck with me: “Everything is not always what it seems.” Using various materials such as water, cooking oils, aloe vera, paint, and magnesium, I altered the appearance of recognizable and beautiful flowers. Blurring the line between natural beauty and distorted beauty, I allowed each piece to embody a different character and feeling.

Throughout my process, I saw that when I manipulated traditional beauty it created strangely emotional images. The relationship between petals and fluids disfigured the flowers with dark and dreamy textures. By accentuating consistency and color, I discovered that each flower’s personality responded differently to the liquids. Seeing this, I began to apply various materials to discover one that matched the flower perfectly. Each resulting image evoked a unique intensity. Some photographs may appear tranquil and untroubled, while others are intricate and chaotic. Something once considered so beautiful is transformed into scenes of disarray. They could be perceived as potent, forceful, captivating, and gritty. This body of work explores the notion that flowers are not as fragile as the world perceives them to be. Despite their delicacy, flowers can withstand the harshest conditions.