Open Theme nominee

In the series Geremis I create otherworldly, blooming plant-like organic forms made of light and vivid colors, emerging from dark, desolate landscapes. The images are made using a novel technique that combines elements of photography, biochemistry and material science. I first build miniature structures (about 2 inches in diameter) from colored, transparent, photoelastic organic gels and bits of other organic materials. Then I illuminate these compositions from behind and photograph them in the cross-polarized light. Because of special optical properties of organic gels, I capture the breathtaking moment when pale, translucent, biomorphic forms transform into glowing, awe-inspiring images that depict universal vitality of life.

Before I became a photographer, I worked for many years as a biochemist. My interest in the photographic potential of organic gels has developed from of my background in science. With my unique combination of scientific and photographic expertise, I reveal the potential of organic matter to transform into illusion of life.