River Rat

Abstract

The marsh; what is it about this brackish, swamp-like area that is so attractive? This environment emanates gnarly gases, is filled with death and erosion, yet has a thriving and resilient ecosystem. I began to wonder what would happen if I used the water from the areas I am photographing—if the water in the image was tied to its creation. Could the salt print process provide the connection between the concept and process I had been searching for? River Rat, a series of river water salt print photographs, depicts a glimpse of life in this complicated environment and the peace it brings to my mind and soul. Sitting on the dock to cool off from the sweltering hot sun, enjoying the bounty from a long day on the water, and how the vast openness of the water is so restless and beyond comprehension that it simultaneously makes one feel insignificant and integral to the greater web of the world. The hidden beauty of the back rivers, the secret hideaways, the elusiveness of the land that is only accessible during certain tides; the water connects and provides for this ecosystem in such a way that feels sacred to me.