Close-up of a red gerbera viewed from behind, with overlapping petals, textured green bracts, and a golden-green stem against a dark blurred background.

Beneath the Scarlet

MG-0050

July 2020

About this piece

Seen from behind, a red gerbera reveals the layered green bracts that support its spreading petals. Saturated scarlet and narrow yellow-orange highlights contrast with the dark background, while fine hairs along the stem give the composition a tactile delicacy.

The story

I found myself drawn to the back of the flower, where the brilliant petals met their quiet support. From this angle, the green bracts formed a small, intricate crown, each edge distinct beneath the red. I framed the stem rising out of darkness and let the petals spread beyond it. What held my attention was the contrast: such intense color resting on a structure so fine it might easily go unnoticed.

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