My art explores the intricacies of the natural world, with a particular dedication to the aquatic biome. I am fascinated with the dynamic space between the benthic zone and the surface, a place in constant motion. Documenting oceanic, intertidal, and other tributaries and their adjacent ecologies, I am interested in making connections between these divergent places.
A central component to my process is the scientific practice of field work: I seek out volunteer opportunities to assist scientists with their research, to gain access to authentic visual experience and data. Equipped with a camera, my wet suit, snorkel gear and water-resistant notepad, it is important to me to acquire and then work with video that I capture myself.
Participating in the conservation efforts of coral reefs, sharks, and other species, my creative research has taken me to various locations in the Caribbean, the Pacific, and most recently, the Mediterranean. The Atlantic Ocean is also a reoccurring location of study, as it is a quick drive from my home in central Virginia. The subsequent labor in the studio responds not only to the science but related emotional quandaries of a challenged environment.
My creative work frequently explores the visual and conceptual connectivity found in various dichotomies: marine versus terrestrial, health versus illness, macro versus micro, geological versus biological. I have long been interested in finding connection amongst contrasting forces, exploring the liminal spaces. To this end, creatures and environments that may not normally exist together in the wild cohabitate within my pictorial spaces, to emphasize the necessity of each ecosystem to the other. No one truly acts alone.
Of late, I have also been combining organic forms with geometric distillations, which first emerged during my research trip to southern Spain. In addition to the many underwater documentation opportunities I had during that trip, I also extensively studied the medieval Islamic architecture in the area. My interest in aquatic spaces and the need for conservation coalesced nicely with this influence: the planning for these medieval structures frequently involved both symbolic and practical inclusion of water in its design. The awareness for the need of water conservation was written into the pages of the Quran, along with its spiritual verses.
At its core, my work is simultaneously a celebration of this vast and sometimes unimaginable natural beauty and an urgent plea for its survival through thoughtful action. *
--Lisa Tubach
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* For more information about what you can do to help contribute to ocean health, visit these websites below, which highlight several effective and simple tactics:
https://dipndive.com/blogs/stories/easy-things-you-can-do-to-save-the-ocean
https://saveourseas.com/worldofsharks/how-can-i-help-save-our-seas
https://oceanconservancy.org/action-center/
https://www.worldwildlife.org/stories/7-ways-you-can-help-save-the-ocean