Wildlife/Animals 2nd place winner

I have found, as humans, we tend to anthropomorphize animals, believing them to embody human-like qualities. In contrast, I believe each animal to be its own unique creature. Therefore, I focus on light, shadow, and each species’ distinctive textures to highlight the immense details of each animal. The remarkable detail is exposed in a dramatic natural light as these ambassadors claim their independent existence, giving the viewer the ability to experience each species as its own entity. With habitat loss and poaching acting as major threats to many species, my intention is to intimately immerse my viewer in each portrait, allowing them to stand witness to a personal conversation about our vanishing wildlife.

This series aims to inspire and inform others about the vast importance of coexisting and protecting our natural world before it is too late.

Abbey Bratcher is currently working and living in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Raised in the American South, Abbey is inspired by the vital relationship we have with nature and wildlife. She shares a passion for creating awareness as it pertains to environmental concerns and the importance of wildlife for our present and our future. Her most recent project "Ambassadors" has been exhibited in Tennessee, Vermont, South Carolina, Minnesota, and Berlin.

Abbey is currently pursuing her Master of Fine Arts at Ulster University in Belfast, Northern Ireland.