LunarJelly The Art of Em Wenzel
Em Wenzel Em Wenzel is the illustrator and designer behind
LunaJelly. Em is an elusive being, often found studying and drawing sea creatures.
The similarities that exist between the unknowns of both space and ocean exploration leaves so much to the imagination. The vastness of what could exist down below, and up above, is one of their biggest inspirations.
LunarJelly is a collection of artworks and designs that explores what kinds of beings could represent the celestial bodies in our solar system, while being inspired by the other-worldly inhabitants of our ocean. The concept behind all of this work, is to show that the ocean governs all life in some way or another.
Pai ntings
The Sun At the center of our solar system exists The Sun. An ancient and bright star which every planet orbits around. This star represents power, balance, and cycles of life. The Sun Nettle was inspired by Sea Nettle Jellyfish and their beautiful, and large bright orange bells.
Venus Second closest to the sun exists Venus, the planet which rules Love, Feminity, and Beauty. They are represented as a sea horse because the roles which seahorses play in their reproductive cycle are an interesting shift in the expectations that we as humans have for motherhood and femininity.
Neptune An Ice Giant that is made up of water and amonias, Neptune lies quite distant from the center of the solar system. They are represented as a Skate fish, which exist deep in the icey Arctic oceans. Neptune represents Dreams, the Imagination and Emotions.
Jupiter By far the largest of the celestial bodies in our system is Jupiter. Representing Law, Wealth, Luck, and Justice. They are influenced by the beautiful Japanese Arowana fish, which are considered extremely lucky and also are the most expensive fish in the world. Flowing curly hair represents the storming surface of the planet, and is contrasted by the balanced structure of scales.
Saturn The second largest planet in our system is Saturn. They are the being of Structure, Law, Obligation, and Ambition. Inspired by a spotted Jellyfish, their bell and rings create a sense of structure, and the rings visually serve as restriction.
Mars Mars is a hot, bright point in our solar system. The being who embodies passion, desire, energy, and aggression. They are inspired by a blue ringed octopus, which are a dangerous and aggressive ocean dwelling species. Their bold colors and shape language conveys this energy.
The Moon The Moon plays the most integral role in why ocean tides exist. Ever present, she sits just above us each night and watches over. Time, mystery, and cycles are what she rules. While it may seem quite literal, she is represented as a Moon Jellyfish, because they can be difficult to see without light, and light is what creates each different moon phases. She has the deepest most intertwining connection to the ocean, so in this way she encapsulates the entire concept behind this series.
Designs
Jellyfish Pins These space themed jellyfish enamel pins are meant to capture the essence of the galaxy and the ocean. Each pin features a unique species of Jellyfish, which are very distintictly and elegantly shaped and patterned.
Crystal Sea Creature Pins Inspired by the magical creatures of the sea, these enamel pins channel each one of their unique energies. I chose to represent them this way because crystals aid in mindfulness, and reflection. By depicting them as different types of crystals, I wanted us all to reflect on how each of these ocean dwellers is just so fascinating, and how there are so many lessons that can be learned from their existence on this earth.
Sea Nettle Pattern As a study of the many of the dynamic and interesting shapes that Sea Nettle Jellyfish can create, I was inspired to illustrate this pattern. These Jellyfish are very organic and flowing creatures, and this design may one day become a silk scarf or tote.
Acknowlegements So many people have shown me support over these last few years that I never used to think I deserved, and I really wouldn’t have made it this far wihtout them. I would like to firstly thank my Mom and Dad for helping me get to where I am today. You pushed me further than I used to think I could go. I would like to thank Pete for being the coolest boss, mentor, and friend. Your guidance has taught me that my avenues in life are limitless. I also must thank Jon for being such a kind friend and wise figure in my life. I have to thank my League of Colleagues for sticking together for these last two years. Your love and creativity has let me open up as an artist and a person. Finally, thank you to Emma, Dan, and Andy for being there from the very beginning. Our friendship means the entire universe to me, and more than I could ever put into just a few words. And thank you to all of my friends and everyone who has ever enjoyed my work! It means everything that I can continue to create art that people seem to love.
If you enjoy my work, you can see more on
LunarJelly.com Thank you for looking!