Karl Blossfeldt: Nature In Focus

As an artist, sculptor, and teacher for the majority of his life, Karl Blossfeldt (1865-1932) wouldn’t be recognized for his photographic contributions until just four years before his death when his first photography book was published at the age of 63. Today, he is regarded as a pioneer in, what is now known as, macro […]

As an artist, sculptor, and teacher for the majority of his life, Karl Blossfeldt (1865-1932) wouldn’t
be recognized for his photographic contributions until just four years before his death when his first photography book was published at the age of 63.

Today, he is regarded as a pioneer in, what is now known as, macro photography. Having never
been formally trained in photography, Blossfeldt altered a camera to photograph plant surfaces with extraordinary magnification- a skill he developed out of necessity. Around 1900, Blossfeldt recognized the potential of photography to supplement fresh plants as teaching tools at the Museum of Decorative Arts in Berlin.

His photographs reveal the intricate natural forms, textures, and physical qualities of the specimens he collected. Although not a scientific study of nature, his collection of works blurs the lines between nature, science, and art.

The Museum of Photographic Arts holds a collection of 120 Blossfeldt photographs.

Installation images courtesy of Stacy Keck.