Intertwining by Michelle Chaplow

Intertwining is a photographic project in which the human form naturally and unconditionally intertwines with nature.

This photograph “Isabella” was taken in the Natural Park of the Sierra de Aracena and Picos de Aroche, in Andalucia, Spain, where by chance, Michelle came across a 100 year old Chestnut tree (Castanea sativa), with a majestic trunk, shedding leaves amongst the rich green moss and its decaying bark.

This  impressive huge bark weathered  by the passage of time,  once gave life and nourished the tree,  now just a hollow space in the eyes of the majority.

An anonymous artist and sculptor carved into the wood the sculpture of a naked woman.

Years later, Isabella reclined into this space creating new life with the bark almost reciprocating by protected her from the elements. Trees have always provide habitats for many species, they afford shade and shelter and in many cultures trees are scared.

Nature and in this case trees,  have a lifelong relationship, intertwining with the human form.