“Surfacing” is a series that reveals the means of bitumen production from oil sands. By abstracting remote mining operations from the air, the images showcase organic shapes, vibrant colours and the intricacies of natural patterns amongst mechanized forms of production. The images also evoke the esteemed tradition of Chinese calligraphy, further conflicting the work, with the realization that these expressive brushstrokes are the environmental waste products from mining operations. “Surfacing” thus invites the viewer to reflect on their relationship with consumption and the environment.
Carolyn Cheng is a contemporary Canadian photographer currently living and working in Toronto, Ontario. Cheng received a Master of Science in International Relations from the London School of Economics and Political Science. She is an award-winning artist that has been published in National Geographic, On Landscape and Nikon’s N-Magazine. Cheng has shown at the Art Gallery of Hamilton, the Robert McLaughlin Gallery, Ryerson University’s Paul H. Crocker Gallery, Gallery 44 and the Toronto Outdoor Art Fair. Her work is also held in various private collections.
Awards 2022, 2nd Place, Fine Art, Still Life, IPA
2021, Gold and Silver, Fine Art - Landscape, PX3
2021, Top 101 Photographs of the Year, International Photographer of the Year
2020, Gold, Nature - Landscape, PX3
2020, Top 101 Photographs of the Year, International Photographer of the Year
2020, 2nd Runner Up, RMG Exposed, The Robert McLaughlin Gallery
2019, Silver and Bronze, Nature, PX3
2019, 5 Honourable Mentions, Aerials and Fine Art Abstract, International Photography Awards
2018, Top 101 Photographs, International Landscape Photographer of the Year
