Chasen Rivard finds deep inspiration from the Gothic Revival-fueled Dark Romantic paintings of the 19th century.

Death frightens most, but through this morbid fascination of the invetible doom, he posits that one can find reassurance and acceptance.

Chasen also draws inspiration from the broader Romantic movement of the 19th century and uses appreciation of nature as a bridge to accepting death in his series Fear, Breathe, Return.

Chasen’s photography explores fear of death through symbols of religious uncertainty, aging, grief, and still life shots of how people honor the dead. He claims one can counter Fear by remembering to simply Breathe. His work encourages mindfulness through admiration of the natural world and its beauty, reminding viewers to appreciate the time given to them. Eventually, the time comes to Return to that beauty.

Chasen hails from Atlanta, Georgia, where he can be seen wondering the Historic Oakland Cemetery or writing and recording music.