Paisaje de Hongos. From the Bodegones series, 2021

Dora Franco  

Other sizes: Large: 80 x 106.6 cm. Edition of 6, and Medium: 60 x 80 cm. Edition of 6

This artwork masterfully showcases an exquisite still life arrangement of various mushrooms against a rich, dark background. Dominating the scene is a substantial, robust mushroom standing tall, its textured cap adding depth and interest. Nestled beside it is a cluster of slender, delicate mushrooms, their pale stems and tiny caps intertwining in a dynamic yet harmonious display. The foreground is accented with lush green moss, providing a natural base that contrasts vividly with the mushrooms' earthy tones. A silver knife, artfully placed, adds an element of intrigue and contrast to the organic forms, reflecting light subtly to enhance the composition. The moody, dim lighting casts gentle shadows, creating a sense of depth and mystery while highlighting the intricate details of the fungi. This captivating piece uniquely combines elements of the natural world with a touch of the ethereal, drawing the viewer into its serene yet enigmatic ambiance.

The bodegones are a pictorial interpretation based on a research project of the famous chef Juan Carlos Franco, on old food recipes of different periods in history. The photographer recreated the images inspired by paintings and images from these eras, also finding inspiration from artists such as Leonardo DA Vinci, Albrecht Dürer, and others.