The research and writing for the book PLANT-LIFE, a Walk with Nature, were in no way directed, in particular, to espouse the values of holistic science. Yet, by delving deeper into the scientific workings of plant-life in relation to the constantly changing environment, a progressive more holistic and ecological understanding emerged quite naturally. This was reinforced by the inclusion of art appreciation and philosophical reflection.
Indeed, the author was inspired to write the book in an attempt to explain the beauty and harmony of the spatial relationships between the same and different species in mature, natural communities of plants. Already, he had realized a series of botanical compositions, recreations of plant communities, made with pressed flowers and parts of plants. This is very different from compositions that utilize garden cultivars, or a mix of wild species and garden cultivars, in an attractive artistic fashion. It is more interesting and perhaps qualifying to combine an artistic quality with botanical coherence, also capturing a glimpse of ecosystems and different seasons. A botanical identity where Art in Nature and Nature in Art is the simple philosophy, to enhance the awareness and need for the conservation of plant biodiversity.
Photographic reproductions of the compositions on high quality paper, together with botanical reference and prose, have been well received. There is therefore great synergy between the book and the compositions, and any suggestions as to how this can be exploited commercially will be welcome.
In the book, the author also touches on Bio-Art, with the opinion that the work of many exponents is too much influenced if not subordinated by the potency of scientific techniques and prowess. Rather than revealing complex interrelationships and movement in living organisms using the entire artistic space and intuition.
Writing a book, that justifies the congregation in plant-life and nature, of botanical science, art and philosophy, was not an easy task. It goes against convention but creates a valid, more holistic view of nature, and is anything but superficial.
The foregoing describes the intellectual adventure embodied in the work. At the same time, the book is structured as a walk in the countryside focused on wildflowers, for botanists, naturalists, hikers, and anyone interested in nature and conservation. So that it can be enjoyed by a wide-ranging, multi-level readership. The text is supported with lots of fine images, diagrams and tables, even a few catchphrases and poems, not forgetting a comprehensive bibliography.
For interested readers, the book might be considered a ‘thought-provoking companion’, something to be kept nearby on the shelf, and dipped-into from time to time, before reading completely and possibly re-reading, after due reflection. For more information and ordering: www.nartura.net.
