Under the Surface

Each summer, young explorers from Northwest Passage set out for adventures that few have experienced. They bravely submerge themselves in rivers and lakes to learn about and document underwater ecosystems. The stunning photographs that result from these expeditions have been featured in books, films, and witnessed by over one million people at exhibits around the United States. These photographs represent the kids' exploration and discovery of the underwater world, and of themselves.

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"Don't Turn Away from Me" by Anonymous, 15 | Under the Surface 2016

Don’t turn away from me
Don’t leave me all alone
In this unknown world
Too many bad things happen here
I’m not ready to exist on my own
I’m sorry for the impulsivity in some of my choices
I wasn’t thinking straight
My mind was too clouded with negativity
I wasn’t in a good place back then
But all of that has changed
I’m no longer who I was before
I’ve learned from my mistakes
My mind is no longer clouded
I need you so much
Can’t you see what you mean to me?
Whatever I did wrong, I promise you
I did not have ill-intentions
I didn’t mean to scare you away
I just want to keep you nearby
But is that what you want as well?
Just give me a second chance
I’ll make it up to you, I promise
Just please…PLEASE
Don’t turn away from me
Don’t leave me alone in this unknown world
For I cannot picture a life of mine without you in it

About the artist: "I came to Northwest Passage because I was having lots of trouble handling negative emotions. Photography has helped me in a couple of ways. I never realized that I was actually talented. I always just figured that photography was just a joke. I also thoroughly enjoy being able to write reflections for my photos. Photography is most definitely something I will continue to pursue once I graduate."

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Under the Surface