Imagining the Self is a book of illustrations and self-reflection questions that invite the reader to explore transformation through the lens of living systems.
Transformation
Nature is in constant motion as it shifts forms, regenerates, and adapts to the world around it. By observing how nature transforms, we can find metaphors and models to support personal, professional, and collective change.
This book explores transformation as an essential step to growth. Each section introduces an organism and its transformation strategy, then asks the reader a question about themselves, their relationships, or their community.
Imagining the Self invites readers to reflect on their own transformations through the patterns of living systems.
How it Started
This project began with a goal to improve my art skills. Over a year it evolved into a book that explores transformation through art, science, and storytelling.
How does nature transform?
Approach
January - November 2023
I started the project by researching an organism every two week, centered around the question:
How does nature transform?
Each study included an image of an organism and a description about how it adapts or transforms.
As I generated the images, I began to explore the alignments between biological strategies and human approaches to change.
Materials Research
Summer 2023
Prototyping for the book included testing different types of paper and printing approaches. The final version was printed on recycled materials made of post-consumer waste and hemp, showcasing the properties of this material.
Art Show
November 2023
Imagining the Self was launched alongside an art show which included my first two lanterns and poster-sized prints from the book.
The First Edition of Imagining the Self was published November 2023 alongside an art installation at Felice Cafe which included my first two lanterns and fifteen posters.
The book launch included a presentation on my art and research process and created space for curiosity and dialogue.
Lanterns
May 2023 - November 2023
Vector illustrations like those in the book are easily translated into linework for CNC machines and 3D printers. I explore new technologies, and turn digital art into space changing structures along the way.
Educational Licensing
Imagining the Self is available for licensing by schools, educators, and organizations exploring nature-inspired learning.
Reach out to discuss options for your course or organization.
Continuation
The project will continue as I explore growth, adaptation, and emergence through light-based sculpture.
Future phases will bring together art, biology, and personal reflection, extending the foundations developed in the book.
Reflection
Imagining the Self is an opportunity to reflect, explore, and grow in ways we can’t always predict.
This project taught me to follow curiosity, even when the path is slow or strange. What started as drawing practice became a study of transformation through illustration and cnc machined sculpture.
Connect
Are you exploring transformation in your own work? Are you a facilitator, educator, or coach using nature as metaphor?