OLana Light

Searching for a Place to Belong (series)

2020 - ongoing

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"Searching for a Place to Belong" is an ongoing photography project, examining women’s relationship with nature, the environment, and what it means to be part of nature. It features a series of self-portraits and portraits of women depicted through wearable sculptures made from natural materials. Inspired by the landscape and its elements, the project reflects the deep influence of surroundings on identity and belonging. These creations are then captured and preserved through photography, providing a visual journey into the intricate bond between women, nature, and their quest for belonging. My ongoing exploration of finding a sense of belonging and discovering my place in the world leads me to realize that we women are an integral part of nature. This idea of unity with nature is central to my work.

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Through the process of creating these works, I not only wear a sculptural work but fully embody and inhabit alternate personas, blurring the boundaries between self and surroundings. For me, nature serves as more than just a backdrop; it's a realm of profound emotional connection, akin to a spiritual haven where I feel most alive. Yet, simultaneously, I recognize the inherent vulnerability and fragility of nature, underscoring the importance of preserving and cherishing these delicate ecosystems.

I aim to explore the intrinsic connection between nature and women, highlighting our fundamental integration within the natural world. I seek to convey the message that everything in existence is interconnected, and as humans, it is our responsibility to care for nature and our planet.

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All materials for the project are either recycled or collected sensibly: bark is gathered from fallen trees (due to wind or disease); palm old leaf bases, chestnuts, and catkins and many more are collected from the ground when they naturally fall.