Soothing Waters for the Soul

Soothing Waters For The Soul was influenced by the idea that we as humans are connected to nature in many different ways, and are affected by climate change in similar ways. Zoë and Cara feel very connected to water and the concept that all things in life are constantly changing and moving forward. The idea of this project is for the audience to feel as though they are present by a body of water, breathing in all that our wonderful Earth has to offer. Though climate change has and continues to impact our ever-changing environment, it is nature that prevails.

Visuals done by Zoë allow the audience to get lost in the journey of the music while at the same time finding mirroring details in the painting. The intention was to provide a way to envision the colours and feelings the music evokes, and to bring to life a body of water. This mixed-media piece uses many layers of watercolours, as well as inks and acrylics, to build depth, creating a complicated image. This layered, repetitive painting is meant to highlight the complexity of nature, the significant impact humans have had on the natural world, and the strength of water.

Music done by Cara allows the audience to feel the soundscape through your entire body as if you are present. The visuals and music together gives the audience an opportunity for a multi-sensory experience in nature – specifically by water. The goal of this project is to provide the audience with a moment in time, a moment by water, a simple moment passing by. 

  • Circular black and white image of person with their eyes closed, playing the guitar.

    Cara Sanelli

    Cara Sanelli, also known as “csane”, is a 23-year old self taught musician from Hamilton, ON. Her love for music sparked when she was 13 watching her friends play guitar and introducing her to new genres. Following this, she was introduced to the unique sound of Bon Iver who became a very strong influence in Cara’s love for music and in her production of sounds. She aims to create music that helps to promote change, whether it be through lyrics or advocating for a community cause. Cara’s music is strongly influenced by the connections throughout her life whether it be with other individuals or with nature. Through her music, Cara tries to capture feeling and the subconscious. Those thoughts that you believed you moved past, but a part of them is still there inside of you. A whirlpool of sounds and lyrics that heal you. Creating music that you, as the listener, are able to enjoy in your own solitude. You are able to sit and let the sounds of the song guide you to where you need to go. Cara’s music creates an experience in your mind throughout her songs. An ambient atmosphere that extends beyond what you see in the physical world.

    Cara's Instagram 
  • Circular black and white image of person smiling at the camera.

    Zoë Martos

    Zoë Martos is a watercolour artist, scientist, and nature enthusiast currently splitting her time between Kitchener and Ottawa. She often combines her art and science backgrounds in projects, especially for scientific illustrations. Her biggest inspiration is the natural world, and exploring how we connect to it. Living and working in Nunavut has focused her paintings mostly on the beauty of the Arctic, and how climate change is and will impact the land. Zoë is the Artist in Residence for Lamp in Hand, a site dedicated to storytelling for social good and inspiring people to find their passion. There, she features art tutorials and encouragement for artist.

Zoë and Cara simply give the audience permission to perceive this project as they wish. They do hope that the audience connects with the idea and feeling that nature is beautiful. Being more present and understanding that reality may not be the same for everyone, but we all are connected through nature is something that is very important to remember. Breath in. Be more present. Allow yourself to take a minute and enjoy the things that are in front of you.
This project was created as a collaboration between Cara and Zoë, where ideas were discussed through the perspective of two individuals who feel strongly connected to Mother Earth. Both of these artists feel a strong pull to nature and receive their inspiration through the works of the Earth. After many discussions about nature, both Cara and Zoë felt a strong pull towards the fluidity of water. Finalizing the decision to focus on bodies of water, Cara and Zoë have created pieces that interprete how they perceive nature surrounding different bodies of water.