Spirits of the Swamps (2022)
Spirits of the Swamps shows the Jette-Ganshoren and Moeraske (Evere) swamps, two remnants of what used to be larger wetlands in the Brussels region. Over the centuries, the wetlands have been threatened several times by construction projects. Today they are recognized as natural reserves. Despite the inherent fragility of such biotopes enclosed by railway tracks and urban development, the rich flora and fauna is a testament to nature's resilience and importance in urban areas and elsewhere.
This series reflects on the peculiarities of marshes as intermediate stages (in the ecological process of plant succession) and partly self-regulating biotopes that enable life through the presence of quality water. The images center on this complex network and the distinctive interconnectivity between species, acting as constant reminders of the interconnectedness between all organisms that exist.
Spirits of the Swamps is inspired by animistic philosophy and spirituality, as well as the work of Japanese film director Hayao Miyazaki and Scottish-American author and naturalist John Muir who once wrote, “When we try to pick out anything by itself we find that it is bound fast by a thousand invisible cords that cannot be broken, to everything in the universe.”
(2023)
