49m², year 6, winter 2022 | Observation Mandy den Elzen

Nature, with its biological processes and inherent forms, is a unique collection of wonders.

My artistry operates at the intersection of art, nature, science, and biology. In this, I meticulously combine fieldwork with the development of sustainable conservation techniques.

The request to observe the 49m² area during the winter season is entirely in line with current developments in my artistic practice. The importance of biodiversity and the relationship between humans and nature is a topical social issue. This has sparked my growing interest in observing and displaying the specific morphological characteristics of local flora. Whereas a biologist adheres to conventional classification systems and methods, an artist has the freedom to explore other classifications.

Zaartpark, a stone’s throw from my studio, is the closest green space where I can escape the hustle and bustle and become one with nature.

At the start of the project, I made an inventory of the plant species that manifest themselves within the demarcated piece of land. Interesting, because does nature adhere to boundaries? In the rich variety of plants within the 49m2 frame, I was able to inventory the following species:

• Grass – Poa trivialis
• Broad-leaved dock – Rumex obtusifolius
• White willow – Salix alba (planted by Roos Vogels)

The importance of biodiversity and the relationship between humans and nature is a topical social issue. Between 14 and 20 March, I placed a new series of botanical preparations in 49m2. In this way, biology and art are intertwined and I show the diversity of natural forms that have been created by biological processes.

By placing preserved nature as a work of art in the wild, I wanted to surprise passers-by and offer them a unique preserved Zaartpark Flora. The aim was to encourage viewers to think about the importance of living organisms.