Dandelion in black and white (panel 2) by Elianne van Turennout

This triptych of black-and-white macro photographs reveals the timeless grace of the dandelion, each image captured against a deep, mysterious black background. Inspired by the photographic aesthetics of both Steven Vanfleteren and Anton Corbijn, the images exude an air of tranquillity and modesty, impressively expressing the subtle beauty of this everyday flower.

The first panel opens with a lush dandelion in full bloom. Its soft fluffy seeds float in the air like light feathers, while most of the seeds rest carefully on the flower head. Only one seed seems to free itself, floating like a lone traveller in the sky. The deep black and white background emphasises the contrasts and makes the subtle details of the flower come alive.

In the second panel, a perfectly symmetrical dandelion is revealed, its petals like rays of light fanning out around the central flower head. The absence of seeds in the air focuses attention entirely on the flower itself, while the soft contours create a sense of serenity and balance. The dark background envelops the flower like an embrace, creating a sense of depth and mystery.

The third panel shows a dandelion in its final stage, its petals slowly fading as they give way to the ripe seeds on the flower head. One seed rests in place, while another floats like a silent witness to nature's continuous rhythm. This image reminds us of the eternal cycle of birth and rebirth, and of the constant change and renewal inherent in life.

Together, these three pictures form a hushed celebration of the transience of beauty and the timeless power of nature, a tribute to the eternal elegance of the dandelion.

This artwork is offered by Elianne van Turennout

It all started with a4 paper and HB pencils. As a child I was often impressed by how beautiful the world around me was. The urge to capture this beautiful world, and to show the people around me what I saw, was actually there from the beginning. If I remember correctly, I was about eleven years old when I first met the camera. Of course it was a simple compact camera with a ridiculous quality, but I enjoyed it.

I sometimes said I wanted to be a photographer, but of course you have one of the two parents who says, "Dream on." Strangely enough, I followed the sarcastic remark as advice, and still went to study photography.

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