Marine Dimensions Artist's bio

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Sarah Varian

Sarah is an Irish marine biologist living in Dublin, having recently returned from working in New Zealand for two years. Although still working as a consultant scientist, she is now devoting much of her time to promoting awareness of the marine environment using creative techniques. She is hoping to introduce people to underwater photography as an art, combining imaginative compositions in an underwater realm with the science and exploration of the sea.

Inspiration for Sarah's work

'I have always been fascinated by nature and the sea. My primary inspiration originates from the shores of Kenmare River on the Ring of Kerry, where I spent most of my summer holidays as a child with my family. Myself and my brother spent hours searching through rock pools and combing beaches for shells, whilst our father brought us lobster, crab and mackerel fishing. The suspense and thrill involved in fishing for lobsters was incredible for a seven year old, wondering what kind of weird and wonderful creatures would be waiting for you as the pot was slowly pulled closer and closer to the boat. But apart from the mystery, the ocean has always been like music for me. It has the ability to both calm and thrill. Some of my experiences at sea have been so terrifying, but yet I know that the sound of the sea is the one thing that will always make me feel calm and reassured.'

'Working in science can leave a void sometimes when it comes to sensitivity. The constant analysis and need for objectivity restricts any outlet for expression. I have found underwater photography to be a great medium for expression as it's possible to convey a certain mood or highlight an atmosphere underwater. There is also huge potential for experimentation with light and composition due to the variation in conditions and restrictions imposed through working in a medium such as seawater.'

Maerl habitat (coralline algae in Gleesk, Co. Kerry)

'I have also started digitally mixing my images in Adobe Photoshop, using the original photographs as a kind of palette for the colour and substance that make up the final design.'

Digital Maerl Mix (an example of how an image can be used as a palette for abstract digital mixing)