Photographer Juliette Bates fascination with aerial animals including various breeds of birds, insects, and butterflies. Even aquatic and land dwelling creatures make appearances in this fascinating series titled Histoires Naturelles, translated as Natural History. There is a somber mood and passage of time reflected in these works that rely heavily on blue and gray overtones. The color scheme echoes the presence of mortality. Despite the recurring themes of death, there is also a glimpse of immortality attached to the images. By encasing a bird in glass, the creature doesn't disappear and disintegrate into history. It is preserved, not too different from taxidermy.
Bates, who lives and works in Paris, was just recently selected as one of twelve photographers to participate in PHPA 2012, which will result in a group exhibition in 2013. In addition, as the prizewinner of the UPP-Dcouverte/Dupon 2012 competition, her work will be on exhibition later this year at Vieille du Temple in Paris.
