Cherry Archer
Image by Cherry Archer
Cherry Archer (she/her) is a Trinidadian-Canadian multidisciplinary artist who resides in Vancouver on the unceded ancestral lands of the Squamish, Musqueam, and Tsleil-Waututh nations. Her work explores the relationship between humanity and nature, and is informed by ecopsychology - a field of study fostering ecological thinking and documenting how exposure to nature benefits mental, physical, and emotional well-being. Her formal education includes a Diploma in Fashion Design and Technique and studies in photography.
Hi Cherry! Tell us a little about yourself — when did you first become interested in photography and how did you get to where you are today?
I have always been creative. As a kid, I loved drawing, designing, and sewing. I have a Diploma of Fashion Design and had my own business as a milliner. It was the 12 years I spent living in Europe surrounded by, and sometimes collaborating with, talented photographer friends that ignited my interest in photography. Upon returning to Canada, I purchased my first DSLR and enrolled in school to study photography.
I worked in product and event photography, but I found far more joy in my own creative projects. In 2020, I decided to put myself out there and start showing my artwork in galleries. Getting to where I am today is the result of hard work, interacting in the art community, and constantly applying for art opportunities.
Artist and Photographer Cherry Archer
“Photograph frequently and experiment. Challenge yourself. That will help you discover your style and new ideas.”
Your ice tile images are incredible and so unique. What inspired you to create these pieces? Can you walk us through your creative process?
I became interested in photographing ice in 2015 while working on another project. I was out shooting and encountered a frozen pond. I was particularly drawn to the fractures, the bubbles, suspended plants, and how the light cut through the ice. I made a mental note to revisit the idea. In 2020, I started experimenting with photographing plants in ice. During this time I also spent a lot of time hiking, foraging, and gardening. I was very aware of how positively being in nature affected me, so these positive feelings became inspiration for my work.
My process begins by collecting botanicals that I grow in my garden or ethically foraging during a forest or urban walk. I create a composition with the flora, then freeze it in water to form a “Botanical Ice Tile.” The tile is illuminated with colored light, photographed, and printed in large format. Each image is a visual interpretation of emotions, memories, or sensations experienced during my outdoor interactions. My work speaks to themes of global warming, sustainability, biophilia, and being in the moment.
My concern over global warming and coming to the awareness of how being in nature relieves stress are the parts of my personal journey which drive my work.
Are there other photographers or resources that you turn to for inspiration?
Nature and science are my biggest resources for inspiration. Artists who inspire me most are Wangechi Mutu and Anicka Yi. I’m also drawn to the use of color, light, and whimsy of Nick Knight and Tim Walker.
What is your go-to gear for creating your images?
Camera: Nikon D90
Two Flashes: Nikon SB 900 and Nikon SB 600
Lens: Nikon AF-S Nikkor 17-55mm f2.8G DX
What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out in photography?
Photograph frequently and experiment. Challenge yourself. That will help you discover your style and new ideas. Find people to photograph with; you’ll learn faster.
What's one thing that you want to do with photography that you haven't done yet?
I want to collaborate more and to work on projects outside of Canada.
What are you working on now and what’s up next for you?
I am working on landing more public art projects. I want my art to beautify and bring nature into cityscapes that have little. I also want my work to serve as a stress-relieve for those who encounter it.
I’m also working to create a solo exhibition that will include my botanical ice tile photography and a kinetic ice sculpture.
Image by Cherry Archer