TITLE: Hadrian's Villa

This photo was taken at Hadrian's Villa (near Tivoli, Italy) in 2010. Crumbling remains of the Maritime Theater are reflected in the waters of its surrounding moat. Carp appear to be floating between the old Roman columns, adding an additional living layer to this ancient site. To me, this photo encapsulates both of the irretrievability of the past, and the world, both natural and societal, that marches blithely on, repurposing and reinterpreting the remains of what existed long ago.

AUTHOR: Ellen Mitchell (United States)

Ellen Mitchell is a photographer based at the New Jersey shore, where she grew up and currently resides. Her photos document the people, places, and dramatic situations she encounters during her daily life, revealing a humorous yet melancholic side of human behavior. She places a strong emphasis on chance, often shooting without looking through the viewfinder.