Smithsonian magazine's 22nd Annual Photo Contest | Made possible through the support of MPB.com

22nd Annual Smithsonian Magazine Photo Contest Artistic
Chrome Pulse II

In a world where the extinction of animals, species, and plants is becoming increasingly common, we find ourselves on the brink of a possible sixth mass extinction—an event that may be inevitable. In response, I am creating a series that reflects on the loss of life over recent decades and imagines the emergence of new species in a future shaped by environmental change. “The Vacuum”, is a fine art photography series that explores these critical issues. Through the evocative use of vacuum-sealed bags, the series visually represents the fragility and transient nature of life on Earth, urging viewers to consider the potential outcomes of a sixth mass extinction. The series consists of two-hatch pieces. The first image shifts focus to a human subject, encapsulating the idea that humanity itself is not immune to the consequences of environmental degradation. Together, these images form a poignant juxtaposition, highlighting the interconnectedness of all life and the shared vulnerability of species on our planet. The second is a still life, capturing the delicate remains of an extinct species, or the growing of a new species preserved in a vacuum-sealed bag.

Photo Detail
Date Taken: 06.2024
Date Uploaded: 10.2024
Photo Location: Rotterdam, Netherlands
Camera: Canon EOS 5DS
Copyright: © Rik Versteeg