Sunday Spotlight: Presley Rives

Project Title:  Until the Light Shines Again

Artist Statement:  

As my mind becomes fogged and I am left with no words to speak, I turn to imagery. I find myself in a space that feels constricting, and in a world that is full of uncertainty, I am left with nothing but the thoughts in my head.

As a way of coping and exploring my internal self, I use my images as a visual journal to document the highs and lows that come with depression. By using my own experiences with depression as the base of my work, I contribute to the conversation around mental health and hope to provide a safe place for others experiencing similar situations.

My images investigate a range of internal states, from isolated, alone, and hopeless to content and free. Some images are subtle and quiet, disguised as daily rituals. These moments look normal, however, there is more than what the eye can see.

No journey is linear, therefore, scattered throughout this series are also images that reflect feelings of freedom. Light is used as a symbol of hope in the work and foreshadows better days. Originating from my daily journal practices, my images capture and record moments that give me reasons to live. 

Bio:

Presley Rives is an emerging photographer based in Albany, New York who received her BFA in photography from Lesley University, College of Art and Design in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Using self-portraiture and landscape photography, her conceptual projects explore themes surrounding mental health and personal experiences.

You can find more of Presley Rives’ work here, or on Instagram @presleynicole_photography.