In “I Lived in Smoke”, I wanted to capture the often disregarded beauty of an abandoned home. I wanted to show the house’s decay, and how fascinating time and neglect can transform into the extraordinary- I wanted to convey a sense of wonder in the exploration of these forgotten homes and place emphasis on their intricate beauty. Additionally, my series features a prominent element of smoking cigarettes. To me, the act of smoking feels intimately tied to the emotions and experiences I associate with when exploring these abandoned spaces. The act of smoking to me feels as if a metaphor for exploring abandoned houses; both are quiet, contemplative activities that allow for introspection and reflection.