In this intricate work, Spain-based artist Lorenzo Durn transforms the already baffling wonder of nature into even more incredible works of hand-cut art. The self-taught artist first began carving when he saw a caterpillar eating a leaf and was inspired to use a similar dissection technique to reveal the hidden mysteries of nature. Durn uses dried leaves as his canvas and calls his artwork Naturayarte. He chooses to work with leaves because he says, “Their shapes, sizes and textures open up a world of possibilities. What I'm experiencing with this work is teaching me that there are no barriers.”
To create each piece, the dedicated artist collects, washes, and dries a variety of leaves. He then presses a sketch against the surface of the natural material to create an embedded image. He uses a scalpel to create the patterns of very delicate cuts and then peels away the drawing to produce the combination of carving and illustration. With great patience and a steady hand, Durn achieves his elaborate and sophisticated designs which portray an extreme passion for both art and nature.