About Marina

I am a self-taught, Nelson-based fine art floral photographer who creates unique still-life compositions, I am inspired by nature and collect various botanical elements either in nature or from local florists and gardens. My work is not only a reflection of my creative processes but also has a deeper meaning when submerging elements in water. 

At the height of the pandemic,  I felt like I was drowning emotionally and felt suffocated, walking past a channel with floating leaves made me realise that although submerged, we are always but a moment away from floating to the surface to take a breath again, and this inspired my "Submerged" collections.

 My creative process can be painstaking and highly intuitive at the same time. I am a lover of nature and rely on my natural creative instincts when selecting objects like flowers, fruit, seeds, and foliage. These are meticulously arranged on the ground or in a container with water, some items are fully submerged but most float to the surface which adds an element of mystery and wonder. “I strive to capture the essence and subtle nuances of each element as I place them in water, with a focus on balance, colour, and texture. 

Once arranged I capture the still life with my digital camera, and utilise digital processes to complete my vision. I draw my inspiration from the Dutch Golden age but especially from famous female artists like Rachel Ruysch (1664-1750) and Maria van Oosterwijck (1630–1693)

A unique fusion of digital design and painterly style is reflected in my work. My focus is always exploring the immense beauty and opulence of nature and I endeavor to draw the viewer in with the subtle details and intricacies to discover not only my creative work but also the deeper meaning behind each piece.