Sunspotting

Riley Westbrook is a multidisciplinary artist and BFA candidate in the Department of Photography + Film at Virginia Commonwealth University.  In her thesis project, Sunspotting, she seeks answers to the question: what does it mean to literally crystallize a moment in time? Westbrook has a research based practice that is experimental, scientific and process oriented. Endlessly fixated on cycles, through her work she aims to gain a deeper understanding of her own temporal cognizance, ultimately promoting self reflection and play. Her thesis work includes growing cupric chloride clusters on inkjet prints and reproducing the resulting compositions. With Sunspotting, she explores the comfort of a methodical routine while embracing the discomfort associated with inevitable change.