Through the art of documentation, Ashley Chruszcz, photographed people and their outdoor experiences in her project, serotonin. There is a deep joy and freedom that comes with being in nature when the boots get wet and the legs get tired, and she calls that “the boost of happy hormones”. Serotonin is a chemical messenger in the human body that produces feelings of happiness, and many people become filled with serotonin when spending time in the sun or being active.

Throughout her work, Ashley meets people with various skills in the outdoors. Like Brandon, for example, a diver who finds freedom being 60 feet under the ocean, or Alexa who rock climbs to push her limits. These people are photographed to showcase the art and culture of the outdoors.

Serotonin is heavily dependent on the use of natural light and bold colors, which enhance the in-between, raw moments. Sensory elements are also significant, from the smell of dead fish and seaweed to the feeling of goosebumps and blisters, she hopes that you will partake in the stimulation of senses.

www.ashleychruszcz.com | @ashleychruszcz

— 2022 Annual —