Let's get down to it, shall we? This photo story is a comment on humanity's role in the extinction of animals. I know, I know, I know.... Nobody really wants to think about this, given our current "economical crisis." I think that if we don't look at what we are doing and how we are living, then we will cause even a greater crisis for our future.
When photographer, Stephanie Diani, approached me with the initial idea, I was drawn to her thoughts about how humans and animals co-exist in our urban environment. Collaborating with her to bring ideas into visual reality is such a pleasurable adventure...especially with this project! On a personal note: I am not commenting solely about the hunting of animals with guns, but how we are consciously and unconsciously killing the things we need (and love).
In this mythological story, you never see the hunter but it's obvious that these creatures are running for their lives. They are hunted for their monetary value and beauty...even their blood is gold.
The current rate of extinction is 100-1000 times higher than the average (or background rate) making our current period the 6th major mass extinction in the planet's history. Just look at these amazing creatures that are gone forever: Tasmanian Tiger; Quagga; Golden Toad; Baiji Dolphin; and probably the most tragic of extinction stories, the lowly Passenger Pigeon. Seriously, take the time and look up these beautiful creatures online. There are so many more on the extinction list right now...at the very moment you are reading this.
It is time that we take responsibility for our own personal lives. Every individual's choices really do make a difference. Change happens first at home...in the little things we do. Let us live respectfully, responsibly and with integrity.
photographer: Stephanie Diani
models: Tempest Freerunning Team
styling: Tammi Merheb
To achieve the blue-green color, I custom blended Temptu's DURA 405, 406, 407, and 031. The targets were airbrushed with DURA black and brown.
