The ocean has always been one of the most mysterious places on earth. In the past many legends and myths have evolved around monsters living in the deep sea. As a child many of us used to fantasize about underwater monsters like giant colossal squids having so much power that they were able to take down ships.

By looking at Jan C. Schlegel his pictures, you can get a small glimpse of the richness and diversity of our oceans. When we think of fish, we usually perceive them as food and think of salmon or tuna.

The photographs reveal much more than what could be imagined and are truly a special tribute to all the different kind of species living underneath the surface. There are sea horses that look like dragons with galaxies on their skin, flounders with their perfect flat form and their ability to turn invisible or even squids that will remind you of aliens from another planet. Using platinum printing as a process allows Jan C. Schlegel to create a deepness in his pictures that makes every small detail and structure visible for the human eye. It gives you the impression of being able to feel the animal just by looking at the pictures. This series celebrates the art of nature.

Every single creature is unique in its appearance, but they have all one thing in common: The ocean as their home.

Just like the animals living in the deep sea, we need the ocean for our existence, helping us to breathe and regulate our climate.

The series “Creatures of the Seven Seas” shouldn’t only show us all the beauty and the fascinating side of the ocean, it also should serve as a reminder to create awareness of what we will loose if we don't take care of our earth.

UNSEEN 2023

exhibited artworks