When referring to optics, caustics are the projections of detailed structures of light and shadow that result from light rays passing through a refracting or reflecting boundary (like glass or water). Inspired by the irregular and spontaneous formations of caustic patterns seen on the bottom of pools or shallow waters at the local jetty, these detailed projections are mimicked.

Sharpie and oil-based crayons were used to block out each section of the aquatint.