Views of Nature

JUSTUS DE RODE

In his series Views of Nature (2024–2025), Justus De Rode explores the eponymous travelogues of 19th-century naturalist Alexander von Humboldt (1769–1859), who is considered the father of ecology. As a product of Romanticism while simultaneously laying the foundation for a scientific discipline, Humboldt serves as an allegorical personification of De Rode’s exploration of the interplay between rational thought and emotional experience in perception. Using excerpts from Ansichten der Natur (1808) as both titles and starting points, De Rode oscillates between analysis and affect, exploring both his surroundings and his inner world.

The cyanotype – often used as a tool for botanical documentation – allows for a counter-narrative. Through toning the cyanotypes with a variety of natural tannins, the works acquire an earthly character that better reflects the natural world while aiming to spark a sense of wonder and mysticism through their subject matter and pictorialism. Aiming for balance in reason and feeling, Views of Nature reflects on Humboldt’s plea for sensibility as a potential antidote to the modern day alienation.

Judge’s Pick | OD Photo Prize 2025
Justus de Rode is represented in the UK by Open Doors Gallery

Hand toned cyanotype prints
Prices range from £1,600—3,500

For a full catalogue of available work
Contact | tom@opendoors.gallery

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