Of Cages and Feathers: A Photography Series by Kristin Schnell
"Of Cages and Feathers" explores the complex relationship between humans and birds, highlighting the artificial worlds many birds inhabit in captivity and drawing parallels to our own self-imposed confinements.
The inspiration began in Mecklenburg, surrounded by monocultures that offered little habitat for birds. Over time, I took in birds from owners who could no longer care for them, documenting their artificial environments and contrasting them with their yearning for freedom and nature.
The series captures the beauty and diversity of birds within these settings. Colors, shapes, light, and wind create a metaphorical representation of life in captivity, posing questions about freedom and confinement for both birds and humans.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, this parallel became clearer as we found ourselves confined to our homes, leading to increased interest in bird feeding. This shift highlighted our connection to nature and the impact of our actions on the environment.
I build wooden sets in the aviary, paint them, and wait to see if a bird interacts with the set. These images are captured in real-time and are not digitally constructed in Photoshop.
This series is a visual documentation and a call to appreciate nature and the creatures we share our planet with. It urges us to reflect on our relationships with animals and each other, emphasizing the importance of mutual respect and understanding in creating a harmonious coexistence.
