TOKYO-2017 Nature / Trees

Calligraphy Trees

  • Prize
    Silver in Nature/Trees
  • Photographer
    Olivier Robert

This project consists in a personal search of naturally-shaped trees that have a close connection with the traditional Japanese ink-painting (sumi-e). This painting has always been an important source of inspiration and has influenced my work for many years. This work started in Japan about 10 years ago on the routes of Buddhist pilgrimages in the entire country. I’ve regularly spent time in holy mountains for my ongoing project about the statuary ans sacred sites of Japan. I deeply feel that these indomitable trees have a spiritual presence in the landscapes. They pertain to contemplative sceneries that have inspired generations of philosophers, painters and artists over time. This continuous project offered me the privilege to work with monks and calligraphers in mixing photography to other medium.