Surfacing
For decades, artistBarbara Colehas captured dynamic photographs of figures floating underwater.
Much more than shimmering studies of her subjects, these images often evoke and explore deeper ideas.
The photographs featured inSurfacingstar women submerged in the ocean.
“Surfacing”
We recently spoke to Cole aboutSurfacing.
Summit
Most of your work prominently features the female figure.
What sparked your interest in this subject?
“Summit”
A lot of my work is semi-autobiographical.
I shoot my emotional landscape based on my imagination.
Another reason why I work with the figure is that I take a lot of inspiration from collaboration.
“Alliance”
This human connection makes the work stronger and more alive.
I do work with men and women, but I often have more success with female visuals.
Alliance
This focus is evident in your most recent series,Surfacing.
“Disguise”
How has your past work influenced this series, and how is it different?
Ive been photographing the female figure in water for twenty years.
The common thread between all of this work is the water.
“Presence”
The smaller figures in the larger expanse of water creates tension and a larger story.
This series is inspired by triumph, survival, and self-actualizationconcepts that you relate to on a personal level.
How does this series reflect your own experiences?
“Essence”
The women inSurfacingare overcoming adversity, finding personal strength, power, and the way back to normalcy.
This metaphor echoes my own struggles as well as my artistic accomplishments.
Depression has been a lifelong partner.
“Flow”
When Im in the midst of it, like many others I tend to isolate.
Disguise
From a technical perspective, how did you shoot this series?
Honestly, I just try everything I can until I get to what works.
What equipment do you use to capture such beautiful underwater images?
My imagination and my eye.
Presence
You work with several organizations so that highlight mental health awareness.
Can you tell us a bit about these organizations?
These causes are very close to my heart as someone who has continually struggled with their mental health.
Everyone can visit their site and use #ChangeDirection on social media to be a part of that change.
I could not be more excited to have their support and help further their initiatives with my own work.
Do you have any upcoming plans or projects in the works?
Hoping to lock down an exhibition of these pieces next year!
Essence
Flow
