In Island Findings, Elleke van Gorsel (NL) explores the fragile beauty and diversity of nature through a personal journey between two islands: Tholen in the Netherlands, the landscape of her childhood, and Iceland, a geologically and geographically contrasting environment shaped by volcanic forces. The project originates from the concern about the decline of biodiversity and from a desire to reconnect with nature.

Returning to Tholen, Van Gorsel searched for traces of the nature she remembered as a child: the fields, grasses, wild flowers, insects, birds and small organisms that inspired her curiosity. Looking at the landscape with the same childlike sense of wonder that first drew her to nature, she carefully documented its smallest elements without disturbing them. Through intimate observations of flowers, leaves, mosses, seaweed and other forms of life, she captures not only their appearance but also their fragility, resilience and uniqueness.

The project expanded to Iceland, where she investigated the similarities and differences between two island ecosystems with completely different geological origins. Working during the quiet hours of morning and evening light, she photographed Iceland’s volcanic landscapes, microstructures and exceptional colours, creating a visual dialogue between the familiar nature of Tholen and the remote northern environment of Iceland.

Island Findings brings together a selection of photographs and texts reflecting on the ecological and cultural significance of these landscapes. Some photographs are further transformed through mixed media, incorporating drawing, ink, chalk and embroidery. By combining personal memory, artistic research and close observation of the natural world, the book invites viewers to look differently at the details of their surroundings. It is a reflection on biodiversity, vulnerability and our changing relationship with nature, aiming to inspire greater awareness and care for the environments that sustain us.