“My name is Ellie Schumann-Mraz, I’m a 36 year old photographer based in Ohio, USA. Art is a reflection of the artist, and my identity as a trans woman has had a great impact on my art. Before I knew myself, I wrote in my journal about not recognizing myself in my photography, and the frustration that I felt with never being able to pause and appreciate the unexpected gifts that photography brought to me. I felt that my work was someone else’s. In my photography, there is a fascination with magic in the mundane, humor, sharp contrast and bold color, and a continual drive to create something that will compel you to stop and look.”