At first glance, plants seem fragile, small, and delicate. Their elegant structure looks feeble, as if it could easily be destroyed by just a touch. Through my concentration, I wanted to further explore this idea. I started by photographing large, sturdy plants. As I progressed through my exploration, I noticed that the smallest plants, the plants that looked the most delicate, were actually the most structured. The more pictures I took, the more it became clear that a plant’s appearance of fragility actually conceals their very organized structure and shape. Even though these small organisms seem petite and vulnerable, their complex composition is actually very durable and built with a multifaceted support system. The curving veins of a fallen leaf or the delicate edges of tropical flora exemplify the overlooked strength of the most basic organic forms. Through the process of my concentration, I continued to stumble upon structures that reflect the above.
Small leaves, twisted branches, crumbling moss, their subtle beauty appears fragile and delicate. This façade masks their true composition. Leaves are structured by an intricate system of veins. Even when autumn comes and the leaves begin to fall, their innate structure remains. In image number one, half of the leaf has fallen subject to autumn. Its crinkled exterior looks as if it could crumble with a slight touch. Despite its deteriorating appearance, the veins, which are the emphasis of the image, curve within the leaf and remain strong. During winter, dormant life seems inert and decrepit. In image number four, the latent moss clings to a limb and its intricate webbed formation grips tightly. As spring turns to summer, and budding plants sprout leaves, highly structured organisms are abundant. In image number nine, the edges of the tropical leaves create a rhythmic pattern around its center. The edges of the leaves draw the viewer’s eyes to the edge of the photo, then back to the focal point that runs vertically through the image, allowing the viewer to appreciate the intricate structure of the plant. Noticing these subtle strengths has allowed me to view things differently.
Through my concentration, I discovered the beauty and strength of the unnoticed elegant formations of seemingly fragile structures. As a result, I believe I have learned to further explore ideas I might have, and to consider other perspectives. Just because something appears to be a certain way, does not mean it is so. The strength of the tiniest living things can be masked by their outward appearance of fragility. Perhaps that is transferable to other things within my life and the world. Strength is not about power or size, but more about one’s underlying formation.
