We Depend on Each Other To Survive (2020) by Nikolai Peacock
Cyanotype photogram
For this piece, I collected several plants that resonated with me, based on research and personal experience, and printed them using the cyanotype process. Plants were picked with intent and thought towards resilience, transformation, and healing. There are plants to symbolize the members of our trans community that are incarcerated – many of whom lack access to the medical treatment they often need in order to transition. Red clover and pine are plants that contain hormones: testosterone (pine) and a phytoestrogen (red clover). Herbs like mugwort and yarrow symbolize the importance of visionary dreams and healing wounds. Tree roots work through the piece to strengthen and connect. I included some different types of seeds and seed pods as well, looking always towards the future while spreading the knowledge of generations.
Nature teaches the importance of change and transformation, diversity, and interdependence. I do not believe that any human is less deserving of the opportunity to get a second chance. I believe in the strength of communities to stand together in solidarity, and our power to effect real change. This piece is an expression of my solidarity and deep desire to see transformative justice and trauma healing to all survivors of abuse and police violence. We depend on each other to survive.
[Image description from Repair the World PeerCorps teens: “The work is a cyanotype print with a blue background and jagged border. Visible brush strokes are also present. There are white plant prints all around the canvas. On the upper right hand corner there are dandelion flowers. On the lower left hand corner there are carrot leaves. On the lower right hand corner there are helicopter seedlings. In the middle, there are pine leaves and a small and wiry flower.]
