Schuyler DeMarinis
Gaia’s Revenge
MFA Print Media
Summary
Using the magic of the natural world as a bridge between myself and the environment I dissect the cruelties of humankind. Listening to the plants and observing my surroundings lets me convey the messages of our ecosystem.
Artist Statement
Enchantment is all around us. In nature, our imagination flourishes as we take in the smells of flowers, the cold touch of a snowflake, or the energy from the rapid water of a river. Growing a plant from seed shows us the magic of the natural world. The tiny sprout emerges from the ground as the transformation of life begins above the earth. We learn when plants need food or water and can see when human interference is hindering their livelihood and existence. Signs of weakness above ground can tell stories of the world beneath. The green world allows us to communicate with all of our surroundings, organic and non-organic. The plants are talking.
I use my art practice to continue searching the world for enchantment and understanding. My work focuses on using found imagery, materials, natural dyes, to enrich my personal experiences in order to convey our current relationship to nature. I am presenting what needs to be visually shown for humans to think critically about the needed symbiotic relationships and respect for all living and nonliving organisms. The plants are talking, and I am helping them speak.