Oxalá Chova! / Let’s hope it rains! 67P - Broken view Drawing

My interest in maps, landscape, fragments, fossils and the observation of the different aspects of life do not have a single source but introspectively they derive from an existential standpoint. In the series titled “Oxalá Chova! / Let’s hope it rains!”, the charcoal drawings representing European Space Agency’s (ESA) photographs taken by Rosetta mission to 67P comet, reaffirm that standpoint. Besides being attracted by the form and fragmented appearance of these photographs, ESA’s reasoning for this mission, further entrenched my interest in depicting and observing this images as an artist. The theory backing this tremendous and lengthy expedition was to find clues for the possibility that life on earth had its origin in a comet that collided with the planet millions of years ago. These comets and asteroids, inhabitants of the same time/ space fabric, are presented to us as both great looming masses, enclosing the loose threat of clash and disaster, while paradoxically holding the promise of life’s secret. Leaving scientists and mankind hoping to find an exit door from a wrecked planet, and recreate life in another place. Using these images as reference and depicting them with charcoal, in a chiaro oscuro observation, allows me to contemplate the harshness of alien and yet familiar landscapes. Using the formal aspects of digital and satellite imagery, I am working in a series in which the subtle relief of smeared charcoal on paper create marks, which oddly resembles vast extensions of deserted land, with mountains and valleys. No water yet to be found! Let’s hope it rains!