ARTIST STATEMENT
Growing up with a parent battling disease, particularly one with hereditary roots, has a profound impact. While I had been aware of BRCA gene mutations for most of my life, particularly the prevalent presence of BRCA1 within my family for generations, awareness versus experiencing the reality of something are entirely different experiences. In 2022, I chose to undergo genetic testing. While I am grateful for the medical advances that have allowed me to be proactive and in tune with what is going on inside my body, this collision of uncertainty, vulnerability, resilience and alienation is a narrative I wish no one had to live. Although I sometimes question, “why my family and why me?” I now understand the significance of knowing oneself and doing everything in your power to create a life you desire despite the cards you are dealt. In my recent mixed media series, “Blue Genes,” my art becomes a visual narrative, a testament to the strength that can be found in embracing and understanding one’s genetic landscape. By sharing my personal and artistic journey, I hope to begin a dialogue surrounding genetic testing, hereditary conditions, and the impact they have on our perception of self, family and community.
ABOUT THE ARTIST
Ashley Baranczyk is a photographer and mixed media artist currently living in Chicago. Her work focuses on the formalistic aspects of photography by exploring the relationships of composition, form and space. In 2022, results indicated the BRCA1 gene mutation was present in Ashley’s genome. Since then, her work’s focus has shifted towards investigating what it means to live with the increased chance of breast and ovarian cancers. Today, Ashley works in a commercial photography setting and continues to investigate what awareness means to herself, loved ones, her community and others. Originally from Green Bay, Wisconsin, Ashley graduated from Columbia College Chicago in 2021 with a Bachelor of Arts in Photography and Journalism.
© Ashley Baranczyk