“Where is Life?” A Search for Existence in the Universe

Abstract

Conversations about life in space tend to revolve on intelligent life, often looking for civilizations that are equivalent or grander than humanity. This ableist concept is one that has been going around before there was the ability for space exploration. With the light pollution of Houston, Texas, I rarely saw the constellations. My first time going to the countryside was spectacular, but the first time I flew in an airplane during night took my breath away. The clouds below and the stars above while I seemingly floated in between. What life means has evolved throughout the creation of this series. I have explored many mediums, but acrylic painting tends to be what I lean towards to. To shine like the stars, I also enjoy adding other elements that may result in a three-dimensional quality. At first it was glitter or holographic pieces to add, but I have found use in other crafting materials to include in my paintings such as broken glass pieces for centerpieces and beads from necklaces. The depiction of “life” is based on my interests in the flora or fauna, eventually including natural disasters, parasites, and weather phenomenon. The life that exists on earth could easily exist out there in the universe. These are the worlds I am exploring.