Art Forms From The Abyss

Explore the mesmerizing beauty of Ernst Haeckel's scientific illustrations in 'Art Forms From The Abyss.' This exquisite collection showcases Haeckel's remarkable artistic skill and understanding of the natural world, inspiring artists, designers, and naturalists alike. The book features full-page reproductions of astonishingly beautiful marine organisms, drawn from the HMS Challenger expedition, which discovered nearly 5,000 new species between 1872 and 1876. With dimensions of 240 x 300 mm and 144 pages of rich, colorful images, this paperback edition offers a visual journey through the hypnotic and ordered realm of Siphonophores, Medusae, and Radiolarians. Delve into the fascinating history of the Challenger expedition and gain insight into Haeckel's dual legacy as both a scientist and an artist. Perfect for art lovers, marine biology students, and anyone captivated by the wonders of the ocean, this book stands as an essential guide to the intricate architecture of organic life. Whether you're searching for inspiration for your next design project or a deeper appreciation of the natural world, 'Art Forms From The Abyss' will transport you into the depths of creativity drawn from the oceans’ vibrant ecosystems.

Author: Peter Williams Publisher: Prestel Publishing
Bind: paperback
Dimensions: 240 x 300 mm
Pages: 144
Publication Date: 25-10-2015

From jewellery designers to scientists, graphic artists to naturalists, the range of people inspired by Ernst Haeckel's illustrations continues to grow. Following up on Prestel's Art Forms in Nature and Art Forms from the Ocean, this new collection features startlingly beautiful images created by Haeckel, who was commissioned to contribute to the report of the HMS Challenger expedition, which circumnavigated the world from 1872-76. The Challenger's achievements were unparalleled, with nearly 5,000 new species discovered and catalogued from the depths of Earth's oceans. Full-page reproductions bring these organisms colourfully to life, drawing readers into a world at once hypnotic and highly ordered. Divided into three sections-Siphonophores, Medusae and Radiolarians-these illustrations display Haeckel's remarkable artistic skill and understanding of the architecture of organic matter. The authors provide a brief history of the Challenger expedition, background on Haeckel's scientific and artistic accomplishments, as well as informative texts on each group of organisms.A guide to the natural world and an inspiration to artists of every stripe, this collection of Haeckel's work is a fitting tribute to a 19th century genius.