Is signed (A.P.)

I've always been fascinated by phobias. Not just fears, but phobias—an irrational terror towards something. Usually, there's a backstory, a trigger that explains why it developed.

In my case, my phobia is called thalassophobia: a fear of the sea. But, as I've mentioned, phobias aren't something you're born with; they appear over time.

When I was a child, my favorite movie was Disney's The Little Mermaid. I loved the idea of being a mermaid. In fact, I used to spend summers at my grandparents' beach apartment, and if I wasn't in the sea, I was in the pool.

One day, while watching TV, I switched channels and stumbled upon a movie called Deep Blue Sea. I vaguely remember it being about smart sharks, though I'm not entirely sure... I just know it was about sharks. And, as these movies tend to go, there was the typical scene with the shark's open mouth taking up the entire screen as if it were about to devour me. It terrified me.

As if that wasn’t enough, sometime later my parents bought me a video game. At one point in the game, you’re on a submarine, and through the porthole, you can see a creature called the Portuguese shark. I’ve only seen that animal in the game—I don’t even know what it looks like in real life... and I really don’t want to find out.

For many years, I couldn’t even look at fish in photographs or images of the ocean floor. I also stopped going to the beach altogether.

It's funny because before all of this happened, I not only liked the sea, but I even had a pet fish named López. Poor thing died of overfeeding.

When I think about the sea and what scares me, my mind often goes to the deep ocean. For example, that fish with the built-in lantern on its head. It could’ve been a stroke of genius—think about it, a fish with its own light! That’s pretty clever, right? But its appearance is terrifying. It’s like an evolutionary mistake.

A few days ago, after a long time, I went back to the beach and even ventured into the sea. I submerged myself and waited a while before coming up for air, just to see if I could do it. Sometimes, I like testing myself like that... I like knowing that I can choose when to conquer my fears. Don’t get me wrong—I’m not going scuba diving anytime soon. But at least now I know I’m strong enough to go to the beach and even enjoy it. To me, there’s nothing more powerful than that.

Limited edition fine art prints for collectors and galleries.

Produced on baryta quality paper, all limited edition prints are signed and numbered by hand by the artist.

Each piece of artwork is accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity.

Dimensions represent full paper size, including borders (2cm).

Prints are shipped unframed.

The artist reserves the right to produce up to two Artist Proofs for each artwork in addition to the edition sizes listed.

Tax is included in product prices.

Shipping costs depending on the area.

To ensure the longevity and optimal preservation of your artwork, please follow these detailed care instructions:

1. Handling

Use Gloves: Always handle the photograph with cotton gloves to avoid leaving grease or moisture marks.

Avoid Direct Contact: Do not touch the surface of the photograph directly with your hands, as natural oils from your skin can deteriorate the paper.

2. Storage

Controlled Environment: Store the artwork in a cool, dry place, preferably at a room temperature between 10ºC and 30ºC with a relative humidity between 40% and 60%.

Individual Protection: If you have purchased more than one photograph, never stack them without protection between each one. Place tissue paper or any other soft paper between them to avoid damage.

3. Display

Avoid Direct Sunlight: Do not expose the artwork to direct sunlight to prevent fading.

UV Protection: If you decide to display the artwork, ensure it is protected by glass or acrylic with UV protection.

Frame Materials: If framing the artwork, use acid-free materials for the frame and mat. If the frame is made of wood and comes into direct contact with the photograph, it must be natural wood and unvarnished.

4. Adhesives and Mounting

Acid-Free Adhesives: Use acid-free adhesives to avoid yellow marks and deterioration of the support. Any other type of adhesive can cause long-term damage.

5. Cleaning

Dust Removal: Use a soft, dry cloth to remove dust from the surface. Do not use chemical cleaners or liquids.

Avoid Scrubbing: Do not scrub the surface of the photograph, as this can cause scratches or damage to the paper and the print.

6. Transportation

Protective Packaging: If you need to transport the artwork, ensure it is adequately protected with cushioning materials and in a sturdy box.

Avoid Extreme Conditions: Do not expose the artwork to extreme temperatures or high humidity during transportation. Handle it with care to avoid damage.

A pair of white cotton gloves and a personalized postcard.

The artwork is shipped flat or rolled in a tube depending on the size, well protected with bubble wrap.