Black and white still life of flowers and fruit in extremely dramatic light by Gelissen Artworks

Black-and-white still lifes of flowers and fruit in extremely dramatic light are a fascinating genre within photography and painting.
These works emphasise contrasts and textures, strongly highlighting the shapes and details of the objects.
Here are some of the features and aspects that make these artworks so special:

Contrast and Shadow:
The use of dramatic light creates deep shadows and bright highlights.
This creates a strong contrast that accentuates the shapes of the flowers and fruit.

Texture and Detail:
Without colour, the textures of the objects become even more important.
The fine details of flower petals, the rough skin of an orange, or the smooth skin of an apple all become more apparent.

Symbolism:
Still lifes often contain symbolic meanings.
Flowers, for instance, can represent impermanence and beauty, while fruit often symbolises abundance and fertility.

Composition:
The way the objects are arranged plays a crucial role.
A well-placed flower or piece of fruit can grab the viewer's attention and guide the eyes through the picture.

Historical Influences:
This genre is heavily influenced by the Dutch and Flemish masters of the 16th and 17th centuries, who were known for their detailed and symbolic still lifes.