The Black Sunflower

A growing self-portrait series attempts to help find sunshine through clouded confusion.

I made an interesting promise earlier this year. I dedicated myself to taking more pictures of my hair in the sun this summer. Now, when I made these plans, I envisioned myself on a beach or some downtown setting of a different country. Was off a bit there. The unexpected good news is that there is no doubt that I am currently right where I need to be. I would also say that most of us are finding unique ways to show and feel gratitude as this year progresses. There is so much of our energy going out into the world in attempt to steer these changes towards positivity. The question that remains; how are we replenishing that energy?

My hope is that this photo series helps me with answering that question. In line with the first written series that debut one year ago, Flowers in the Wind, I wanted to take a more physical approach to observing plant life. Photosynthesis emphasizes the need of sunlight for healthy growth. In this time, where I have felt certain instances of extreme isolation and loneliness, sunlight has been a silent friend holding my hand. The new world that we are collectively creating must be reminded of such simple pleasures. Even the ones as small as feeling the sun on your skin for a few moments a day. For the next 6 weeks, my goal is to intentionally find a little piece of sun to bask in and to portray the health properties associated with this habit. Enjoy this first set of photos demonstrating mindfulness, rejuvenation and peace. Photographer, Da’Chele Davis-Tisdale.

More to come next week! Share your photosynthesis journey with us! Tag us in photos with hashtag #theblacksunflower #Blackphotosynthesis