This mini feature showcases one of the eighteen open submission portfolios selected for inclusion in our printed journal based on the theme of the right to roam
The eerie stillness that often comes when one is alone in nature is something that has always lured me in deeper and inspired my own sense of calmness. In a world where there is always a new tragedy or scandal being blasted across all forms of media and technology, nature is where I go to disconnect from the stress that comes from living in a contemporary world and return back to an instinctual place that I can let my reservations and inhibitions down. This project, Abstracted Lands, was born of this need for an escape from reality, if only for just a moment.
Abstracted Lands started off as a response to the frustrations I felt as an undergraduate student with all of the rules and restrictions I perceived were being placed upon me by my instructors and peers. Taking inspiration from Ralph Eugene Meatyards series, No Focus, I set out to challenge the way that not only I saw nature, but how I could get others to look at it differently as well. I want the viewer to disconnect from their current world and step into a new reality where things aren’t always what they seem.
When we have the ability to roam freely amongst nature we let go of those worldly ideals and expectations society we place upon ourselves. We can slow down our pace and truly take in the moment, take in our surroundings and try to just breathe a little easier, if even for just a moment.
The full set of images from the open submission are shown below (click to view image larger in the original format).
CREDITS
Unless otherwise stated, all words and images in this article are © Josh Summitt
THE JOURNAL
Our biggest, most content packed, and socially current publication to date, exploring the theme of the right to roam. Featuring an introduction by our very own co-founder Rob Hudson and a selection of work from 37 contributors, including the one featured above. Click on the image of the journal cover below to take you to the journal’s information and ordering page.
