ON BOTANICALS

FROM THE INVENTION OF PHOTOGRAPHY

to today, botanicals have appeared throughout the timeline of the medium. From the early cyanotypes of English botanist Anna Atkins, to the sensuous blooms in dye transfer prints by Robert Mapplethorpe, the long history of art records our fascination with botanicals of all kinds.

It has been exciting and rewarding to review the diverse images submitted for this edition and to see the compelling ways photographers explore the natural world. Many found new voices or sought comfort during the pandemic, such as Jennifer Long and Ryan Van Der Hout. For others, such as artists Danny Custodio, Phyllis Schwartz, and T.M. Glass, botanicals are consistent elements in their lives and work.

Botanicals are an enduring unifier; their beauty entrances all but the incurable.

The contemporary artists selected to appear in this issue have presented unique perspectives and mastery of this evolving medium.

My vision for this special edition was to showcase the selected works as we might experience them in an art gallery. Slowly, with contemplation, and with room to breathe.

I hope you enjoy the outstanding work featured in this latest issue in the same way you might savour viewing an exhibition or photobook. With the onset of winter, may this issue bring warm rays of delight and inspiration.

“It is an illusion that photos are made with the camera... they are made with the eye, heart and head.” — Henri Cartier-bresson