Unearth

In my work I explore the relationship between identity, the body, and a connection to the natural world. Nature is deeply entrenched with gender stereotypes while it also signifies a realm free from the confines of societal structures. As a gay male, I photograph my interactions with the landscape as means to express the struggle to adhere to heteronormative gender roles. I depict the disconnect from one’s identity and the insecurities that manifest from the perceived failure to adhere to traditional masculine roles. 

I have studied the work of eco feminist artist Ana Mendieta, whose series Silueta relies on the historically prevalent link between women and nature. The work of Laura Aguilar speaks to a personal connection to the landscape and the natural form of the body. The whimsical photographs of artist Arno Rafael Minkkinen have been influential in cultivating a surreal element into this body of work that at times blurs the lines between the natural world and the unnatural perception of self. Images by Minor White and Mark McKnight have expanded my views on nature from the gay male perspective. I’ve looked to the male portraiture by Joseph Maida and the book Deep Springs by Sam Contis for further ideas of how to represent masculinity.

I have read Of Mother Nature and Marlboro Men- An Inquiry Into the Cultural Meanings of Landscape Photography by Deborah Bright, the The Nature of Masculinity: Critical Theory, New Materialisms, and Technology of Embodiment by Steve Garlick, Masculinity, Nature, Ecofeminism by Richard Twine and articles from Men and Nature: Hegemonic Masculinities and Environmental Change by Nicole Seymour and Sherilyn MacGregor. These texts have been influential in expanding the scope of my project and inspiring new imagery. As this project progresses I will continue my research. I am currently reading about the concepts of petro-masculinity and queer ecology which I think will add to the complexity of my work.