Dutch Masters | Contemporary Botanical Study

A manifesto of my design philosophy, visually presented in 'zine form and created to advocate for a biophilic design ethos grounded in reciprocity and ecological reverence. I hope this empowers designers to be change agents and reflect on their role in shaping the future. We are uniquely positioned to take bold action to serve the collective well-being and justice for all.

General info

Client

Personal Work

Deliverables

Photo Series

Date

Apr 2026

Website

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Services

Creative Direction

About the project

Paintings by the Dutch masters are defined by chiaroscuro lighting, symbolic objects, and layered compositions that reward close inspection. This project examines how those classical techniques translate into contemporary photographic practice.

The still life was constructed entirely in the studio. The ceramic vessels featured in the composition were designed and hand-built in the studio. The botanical arrangement was sourced, conditioned, and composed to balance the tension between abundance and decay. I used fresh blooms alongside dried roses, ripened fruit, cicada exuvia, and crystals. Every object was chosen for its texture, symbolic weight, and tonal value within the frame.

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Project execution

Lighting was the central technical challenge. Working within constraints that limited digital editing, nearly all visual impact was achieved in-camera. I used multiple lighting positions and exposure tests to achieve a controlled chiaroscuro effect that emphasized depth and materiality. Post-processing was minimal, limited to Lightroom Classic.

The final images demonstrate precise control over light, intentional object staging, and the ability to build narrative atmosphere through composition rather than editing.

Ultimately, the project recreates the tonal contrast and layered composition characteristic of Dutch master paintings using contemporary materials and methods. It highlights the integration of ceramic design, botanical installation, and editorial photography into a single cohesive visual system.

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