Hongos con Ajo. From The Bodegones series, 2021

Dora Franco  

Hongos con Ajo, by Dora Franco. From The Bodegones series.  

Other sizes: Large: 69.6 x 109.2 cm. Edition of 6, and Medium: 51 x 80 cm. Edition of 6

This artwork is a striking still life featuring a harmonious arrangement of organic elements. Dominating the composition are robust mushrooms, exuding earthiness with their textured caps and rich hues, creating a visual anchor. Flanking these fungi are walnuts, their shells mottled and intricately detailed, adding a tactile depth to the scene. A singular garlic clove and a sprig of parsley introduce contrasting colors and forms, imbuing the piece with freshness and vibrancy. Set against a dark, unobtrusive backdrop, the elements are artistically laid out on a rustic wooden surface, enhancing the natural theme. This composition skillfully combines simplicity with sophistication, drawing attention to the beauty of ordinary subjects through its meticulous rendering and balanced design. The interplay of textures and tones exhibits masterful control, inviting viewers to appreciate the artistry in everyday objects.

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.