Artist Michelle Blancke has captivated audiences with her ethereal photographs of forests that blur the line between reality and mystery. Her lens-based work transforms ordinary woodland scenes into otherworldly visions, exploring deep themes of consciousness, transformation, and the unseen forces that shape our perception of nature.
"I've always been fascinated by the idea that our perceived reality is shaped by our minds and reflecting our inner world," Blancke explains. Her photographs of trees, glens, and foliage create a familiar yet uncanny world that invites viewers to question what lies beneath the surface of everyday nature scenes.
Blancke's artistic practice centers on exploring relationships between interdependence, consciousness, and concealment, particularly through natural subjects. Her comprehensive "Secret Garden" series demonstrates this focus through five distinct sub-categories: Realm, Ascent, Essence, Veins, and Origin. Each category captures different aspects of the forest's hidden character, from the intricate patterns of veined leaves to the mysterious shadows cast by climbing vines over ancient trees.
The photographer's creative process begins with extensive walking through forested areas, searching for moments when atmosphere and light create special interactions. "When I photograph, I'm responding to that feeling rather than to the literal scene in front of me," she describes. This intuitive approach allows her to capture what she calls the "thin veil between the seen and the unseen." Blancke notes that entering woodland feels like "stepping into a parallel space where something hidden becomes perceptible."
While the initial capture relies on instinct, Blancke's artistic vision truly emerges during digital post-production. During this phase, she makes deliberate choices about color and tone, "shifting hues to amplify the emotional tone I sensed in the moment." She explains that "the colours are a way of revealing an inner layer that already felt present while I was standing there. It's an attempt to make the invisible atmosphere visible."
Blancke's work explores the mystical aspects of transformation in nature, whether capturing the waxy surface details of elaborately veined leaves or documenting how vines create shadowy veils over gnarled tree branches. Her interest lies in revealing the relationships between transformation, mysticism, and the subtle boundaries that separate what we can see from what remains hidden.
Currently, art enthusiasts can view Blancke's compelling forest photography as part of the 2025 Aesthetica Art Prize exhibition at York Art Gallery, where her work will remain on display through January 25. Additionally, she maintains a close working relationship with BBA Gallery, which represents her artistic endeavors.
For those interested in exploring more of Blancke's mystical forest photography, her complete portfolio and latest works are available through her official website and Instagram account, where she regularly shares insights into her creative process and new additions to her ongoing exploration of nature's hidden dimensions.
