Catherine Chalmers Photographs the Circle of Life
Vasiliki Marapas — July 15, 2014 — Fashion
References: catherinechalmers & vice
Catherine Chalmers captured predators devouring their prey in her latest series, titled 'Food Chain.'
The series has some seriously stomach-turning images of the circle of life. It begins with a shot of a caterpillar snacking on a tomato, followed by an image of a praying mantis brutally slaughtering a caterpillar and eventually ending with a toad dining on a praying mantis. The series is complemented by Chalmers' accompanying project, 'Pinkies,' which features a similar trajectory: a photograph of newborn mice who become tasty morsels for a snake and a toad.
Of the project, Chalmers explains, "I was horrified. Really, you’re going to raise an animal specifically to photograph it dying? The thought of it gave me a stomach ache. But the more I considered it, and probably because I was so disturbed, the more I realized its power. How is it possible —-and isn't it a bad sign -— that an educated person could be so detached from the processes of life on earth?"
The series has some seriously stomach-turning images of the circle of life. It begins with a shot of a caterpillar snacking on a tomato, followed by an image of a praying mantis brutally slaughtering a caterpillar and eventually ending with a toad dining on a praying mantis. The series is complemented by Chalmers' accompanying project, 'Pinkies,' which features a similar trajectory: a photograph of newborn mice who become tasty morsels for a snake and a toad.
Of the project, Chalmers explains, "I was horrified. Really, you’re going to raise an animal specifically to photograph it dying? The thought of it gave me a stomach ache. But the more I considered it, and probably because I was so disturbed, the more I realized its power. How is it possible —-and isn't it a bad sign -— that an educated person could be so detached from the processes of life on earth?"
Trend Themes
1. Circle of Life Documentation - Opportunity for innovative photographers to capture the raw and sometimes disturbing realities of the circle of life in their work.
2. Nature's Brutality - Exploration of the harsh and violent aspects of nature through artistic photography opens up avenues for artists to challenge societal perceptions and provoke thought.
3. Environmental Awareness - Exposing the disturbing realities of the food chain serves as a catalyst for raising consciousness about the fragility and interdependence of ecosystems.
Industry Implications
1. Wildlife Photography - Opportunity for photographers to capture captivating and thought-provoking images that showcase the realities of nature.
2. Fine Art - Inspiration for artists to challenge traditional conventions by depicting the darker aspects of the natural world and provoking conversations about the human relationship with nature.
3. Conservation Education - Utilizing shocking imagery to raise awareness about the importance of protecting ecosystems and the delicate balance of the natural world.
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