The beauty of the ordinary
Köln, 2025
More and more cities are recognizing the importance of “simple plants” in green spaces for biodiversity in urban areas. And so, wildflowers are being sown along inner-city expressways and in parks—according to precisely planned specifications—as is the case in Cologne, where wild plants are allowed to grow (in a controlled manner) on a large meadow in a park covering an area of 3 m x 30 m. The greenery that was previously considered “ugly weeds” and had to be removed is now welcome
I take a close look at these wildflower areas through my camera lens.
My aim is not to produce a scientific, factual documentation, but rather to capture the character of each location in the respective light, taking into account the weather conditions.
The artistic macro photographs reveal what exactly is hidden in the undergrowth, the aesthetics of these prickly thistles, inconspicuous grasses, and herbs, which until recently were struggling for existence as weeds.
The shallow depth of field sometimes allows for only selective focus, which is set by nature through movement in the wind.
Is the observation of aesthetics idealization, a departure from reality, ecstasy, kitsch, or, in view of pressing global problems, even a superfluous pastime, or is it the exact opposite, a close look?
Is turning to “beauty” a respite from the constant (visual) horror stories that reach us every day through the media?
And what role does nature play in this?
The project will be continued in other major cities.
