losing our grip on purpose

By Laurena Nellies-Ortiz

Artist Statement: 

This collection of photos explores the emotional landscape of loss, healing, fear and resilience. I often find inspiration and strength in observing nature and my surroundings. By playing with light and point of view and staying open to the moment, I have been able to gain new perspectives that widen my own inner emotional environment. Finding visual themes that express my feelings and experiences feels like coming into conversation with an old friend. Through threads of connection I find comfort and healing.

Larena Nellies-Ortiz (she/her), is a German and Mexican-American poet and photographer from Oakland, California. Her photos and poetry have been featured in Burningword Literary Journal, Local Wolves Magazine, Stonecoast Review, 3Elements Review, Sun Magazine, The Indianapolis Review, Change Seven Magazine, Eunoia Review, Bitter Melon Review, Wordpeace and The Ilanot Review.