Coastal reflections

'Coastal reflections' is an ongoing photographic beachcombing project at the north, west and south coast of Bretagne in France. A codification of the sense of 'otherness'; the flux, spheres, textures, colours and forms of the coastline teemed with life and beauty. The photos show intimate landscapes in combination with all kinds of 'object trouvé'; found objects of natural origin and trash of mankind washed ashore by the flood.

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Floral

While studying ecology, I started photographing plants to learn how to identify native species and the conditions of their living environment. This has given me a greater eye for the sense of place. With 'Floral' I zoom in on the unique form, structure and delicacy of flowers in different stages of bloom, fresh and dried, from the Ty-Vert (my home) horticulture, edible and wild gardens.

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House of Worship

On the French peninsula of Brittany the influence of paganism and Catholicism is unmistakable. The sea, always close, embodies the Breton spirit. The rolling countryside is marked with memorials and spiers of chapels, churches, cathedrals and basilicas. The religious buildings are very different in nature. From noble simplicity to an abundance of splendor. The sacred paintings, statues of saints and relics, surrounded by mysteries and miracles, offer believers hope and comfort on their life path. The 'ex votos', vow gifts, and flower arrangements are expressions of gratitude for the sources of existence and a safe and blessed life. The series 'House of Worship' provides an insight into the sacred spaces full of life and punctuation marks from different times.

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Quarry

'Quarry' is about an quarry in the heart of Cotes-d'Armor that is still being exploited. Quarrying is an example of our excessive exploitation of natural resources. The landscape is blown up and shattered with huge machines. However, both the huge installations and the created ‘wounds’ are undeniably fascinating to see. During the extractive operations quarrying can cause significant negative impacts on geo- and biodiversity. Abandoned quarries on the other hand can enhance biodiversity afterwards by acting as refuges for many plant and animal communities.

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Collectionneur

Wandering around I passed a striking building with a large shop window full of curiosities, and opposite a workshop. Both buildings appear to belong to Damien G. He lives in the centuries-old family house full of relics, supplemented with special vintage items he collected over the years. The collection is eclectic and a bit eccentric. The recorded family story and photo essay are bundled in: 'Damien collectionneur'. The cahier is available on request.