Artwork description:

This macro photo of Cladonia Stellaris lichens, taken in the forests of Sweden, invites you to see a whimsical world within a raindrop. If you look closely, the reflection of lichen branches forms the silhouette of an animal face. It’s a playful blend of light, imagination, and nature’s hidden stories, told in its own visual language, sharing a tale of life and growth.

This image a tribute to the role lichens play as pioneers of life. These tiny organisms transform bare stone into fertile ground, laying the foundation for entire ecosystems. Over time, they make way for mosses, plants, and eventually animals. The animal face in the raindrop symbolizes this journey—starting with lichens and leading to the richness of life we see today.

Honored as a finalist in the Arte Laguna Prize 16, "Inside the Drop" was exhibited at the prestigious Arsenale of Venice in 2023. It’s a celebration of the hidden wonders in nature, where even the smallest details can reveal the biggest stories.



PRINT INFORMATION:

Gicleè print on Canson Fine Art paper + COA

The artwork is printed in a limited edition in a few sizes; this particular offer is for the Medium size with an image of 39x48.5cm, printed in a limited edition of 15.


The print is signed, numbered, and printed by the author.


ABOUT THE ARTIST:

Inna Etuvgi, hailing from Russia's Arctic shores, brings her technical background to light as a Swedish art photographer. Her artistic journey began in 2020, and in 2022, she gained recognition as a finalist in the Arte Laguna Prize 16. In 2023, she received an honour from the Swedish Arts Grants Committee. Etuvgi’s works are featured in “Photography in the Visual Culture” 22/23 book.

Navigating life with Aphantasia, Inna's mind doesn't visualise, but it pulsates with vivid concepts, emotions, and sensations. She uses her camera not merely to explore the world but to externalise her unique mental landscapes, making them visible.

Art critic Tabish Khan says about Inna’s art: “her work is about transporting us to other worlds - both real and imaginary, but always in harmony with nature. She may have a mind blind to visualisation, but she has eyes and a camera that capture the beauty in the worlds that the rest of us often overlook and take for granted.”

Materials used:

fine-art paper, archival pigment inks

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