An Imperfect Garden: A Study in Biodiversity
Born out of a deep responsibility for the environment, 'An Imperfect Garden' is more than a photography series; it is a long-term documentation of our garden, a biodiverse ecosystem. These works move beyond traditional garden photography to explore the intricate, often overlooked resilience of nature - wildlife and flora.
When I first discovered my love of gardening ,around 2016/17, I could not have imagined what an absorbing infatuation it would become.
Relinquishing the notion of control has become a fundamental theme in my gardening. This approach challenges conventional views of both, art and gardening. It blends the ideas behind an Eastern aesthetic, wabi sabi, with gardening the natural way: The wabi sabi principles of embracing the natural, the imperfect and the impermanent are important characteristics.
As a gardener I know that this method makes for a more beautiful garden that is as valuable for nature as it is for the gardener’s mental wellbeing. As an artist I am interested in whether giving up (a degree of) control can be at the centre of an artist's work.
The photographs are not only a record for myself but also my way of encouraging viewers to take an interest in gardening and to make their gardens less tidy and more natural. We know now that ‘networks’ of gardens are hugely beneficial for the wildlife and nature as a whole. We also know that gardens can help to re-establish some of the equilibrium that we have lost.
All photographs in this collection were made in our own garden.
Sustainability and the Resilience of the Natural World
Gardening in our age of climate breakdown is about finding the balance between human activity (intervention) and the planet’s ecosystems. The “do no harm” maxim is a good starting point.
Our duty, and our joy, is to support and encourage nature. In photographing my efforts I can demonstrate what can be done quite easily and document what will inevitably be lost if we do not make changes to the way we live and consume. Those of us, who are privileged to own a garden, have a duty to ensure that it is part of the ecosystem.
From the Published Book to Limited Edition Prints
Many of the photographs in this portfolio and my book, An Imperfect Garden, are available to buy as prints in a limited edition of six. The prints are produced in-house by myself. They are numbered and signed and come with a Certificate of Authenticity. For this edition I have chosen Kozo Thick White paper from the Japanese paper mill Awagami.
To buy prints, click on an image to enlarge it. On a desktop or laptop hover the pointer over the image to display the description and the buy this limited edition print link. On mobile devices, press the red dot on grey background in the bottom right corner of your screen.
Signed limited editions from the 'An Imperfect Garden' series are available exclusively via Saatchi Art.
