exquisite and breathtaking. ron van dongen is an internationally recognized photographer of botanical studies. born in venezuela and raised in holland, van dongen imbues his images with a vibrant sensuality balanced by quiet restraint. he methodically grows all the plants himself and hand paints each backdrop to suit its subject and mood. van dongen shoots with a large format camera using only natural lights which conspire to slow down the development process while bringing a refined thoughtfulness to the imagery. these spellbinding results are assembled in proof, ops opis and aurora; three oversized and collectible monographs bound in japanese cloth. in proof, van dongen alters, tarnishes and distresses a collection of recognizable images in unique and surprising ways. the overall effect is an aged quality which simultaneously imparts vulnerability and wisdom to the image, subject and viewer.