Chlorophyll & Silver: a seed

Illustration of an American Chestnut

© Dawn Fós 2025

In the heart of Tennessee’s forests, a story is waiting to be told—a story of roots and branches, of history and resilience, of science and art intertwined. Chlorophyll & Silver is more than just a project; it’s a living, breathing exploration of Tennessee’s native trees, captured through alternative photographic processes and enriched with deep ecological and scientific insight.

The Inspiration

This project was born from a love of trees, their ancient wisdom, and their often-overlooked presence in our landscapes. Inspired by the literary masterpiece The Overstory by Richard Powers and the desire to document Tennessee’s natural heritage, Chlorophyll & Silver seeks to bridge the gap between environmental science and artistic expression.

The Process

Using historical and experimental photographic techniques, such as cyanotypes, chlorophyll prints, and silver-based processes, this project will visually archive the trees that define Tennessee’s ecosystems. Each image is a fusion of art and science, where the very leaves and branches of the trees become part of the photographic process. Accompanying each image will be detailed scientific information on the tree’s habitat, medicinal uses, historical significance, and ecological role.

Why This Matters

Deforestation, climate change, and urbanization threaten many of these native species. By creating a visual and scientific catalog of Tennessee’s trees, this project not only celebrates their beauty but also fosters awareness and conservation efforts.

A Book in the Making

The ultimate goal of Chlorophyll & Silver is to compile these images and data into a beautifully crafted book—one that can serve as both an artistic keepsake and an educational resource. The book will not only showcase the unique photographic processes used but also provide in-depth ecological insights, making it a valuable reference for nature lovers, artists, and scientists alike.

How You Can Support

To bring this vision to life, we’re inviting the community to be part of the journey. Through pre-orders, donations, and engagement with the website www.chlorophyllandsilver.com, you can follow the project’s progress, learn about the trees in real-time, and help fund the creation of the final book.

Join the Journey

This is an invitation to slow down, look closer, and appreciate the trees around us. Through the lens of alternative photography, Chlorophyll & Silver will tell a story of nature’s resilience, artistic alchemy, and the power of scientific storytelling.

Follow along as we embark on this journey to illuminate the trees of Tennessee in a way they’ve never been seen before.

Stay tuned for updates, behind-the-scenes looks at the creative process, and ways you can get involved.