Annabelle Carraway
Just Passing Through
My body of work examines animals labeled as pests in the southeastern United States, challenging the negative perceptions that surround them. Using collagraph—a method of printing from cut and collaged matboard plates—I create striking compositions that highlight these creatures with minimal distraction. Each plate allows for a limited number of prints before wearing down, emphasizing the fleeting nature of both the process and the overlooked lives of these animals.
My collagraphs focus on bold outlines, delicate embossments, and selective ink application to define each subject. I work with a variety of papers, each adding a unique character to the final piece. By stripping away backgrounds and focusing solely on the animals, I encourage viewers to engage with them directly, free from preconceived notions tied to their environments.This work stems from a fascination with the way society perceives and categorizes animals—how we decide which ones are worthy of admiration and which are deemed nuisances.
Often, these so-called pests are merely adapting to the changes we impose on their habitats. By portraying them with detail and care, I hope to challenge viewers to reconsider their biases, fostering empathy for creatures that are simply trying to survive. At its core, my work seeks to foster empathy and curiosity. These animals are not intruders—they are survivors, adapting to a world that has rapidly changed around them. Through my prints, I aim to give them a quiet but powerful presence, prompting the audience to reconsider their place in the ecosystem we share.
