Imagining the Self is a book that invites the reader to explore transformation through the lens of living systems.
Book: Imagining the Self
What do you want the future to be?
Explore this and other questions with Imagining the Self: An art and science exploration of transformation.
Transformation
Nature is in constant motion as it shifts, regenerates, and adapts to the world around it. By observing how nature transforms, we can find models to support personal, professional, and collective change.
This book introduces organisms and their adaptive strategies and asking the reader questions about transformations for themselves and their community.
How it Started
This project began with a goal to improve my art skills. Over a year it evolved into a book that explores transformation through art, science, and storytelling.
How does nature transform?
Approach
January - November 2023
I started the project by centered around the question:
How does nature transform?
I drew an image every two weeks, and each study included an image of an organism and a description about how it adapts or transforms.
As I worked with the question, I began to explore the alignments between biological strategies and human approaches to change.
Materials Research
Summer 2023
As I thought more seriously about printing a book, I started researching paper types and book bindings. The final version was printed on recycled materials made of post-consumer waste and hemp.
Lanterns
May 2023 - November 2023
Vector illustrations like those in the book are easily translated into linework for CNC machines and 3D printers. Through these technologies I turned digital art into light-shifting sculptures.
Art Show
November 2023
Imagining the Self was published November 2023 and included an art installation at Felice Cafe where I displayed art from the book and my first two lanterns.
The book launch included a public presentation where I talked through the creative process, with lots of space for dialogue and curious questions.
Educational Licensing
Imagining the Self is available for licensing by schools, educators, and organizations exploring nature-inspired learning.
Reach out to discuss options.
Reflection
Imagining the Self is an opportunity to reflect, explore, and grow in ways we can’t always predict.
What started as drawing practice became a study of transformation through illustration and structure.
Continuation
The research continues as I explore growth, adaptation, and emergence through Diatom Lanterns and other creative projects.
Connect
Are you a facilitator, educator, or coach that needs help with research or illustrations?