Frozen in the Margins (Affirming Life and the Value of Death)

There are, on average, three Femicides (women murdered by men) each week in the UK (femicide census). Is it the case that photographic trace mimics the trace of the body left in the landscape so using photographic materials will realise the liminal and physical trace of the human body? ‘the photograph indicates that life outside continues, time flows by, and the captured object has slipped away’, De Duve, T (1978). The project explores the locations where murdered women have been buried. Following discussions with forensic botanists I use a range of techniques to find traces of their existence. I explore the use of soil samples and collect flora from the sites. The elements that the human body leaves behind equalise the representation of each woman. No names are given, only a visualisation of what remains in nature. These images deal with the paradox of photography as trace and as referent. The biological trace is present in the soil chromatography with the material presentation of the physical change in the soil. This is transformed into a photographic image. I worked with Texas State University Forensic Anthropology Research Facility where bodies are donated and left in the landscape for research purposes. Through interdisciplinary discussions with forensic entomologists and anthropologists, I was able to link ways in which the body affects soil structure and the positive repercussions in natures reaction. Decomposition kills plant life. This is the transfer of trauma. The study considers the deathscape and physical representation following the regrowth from death.