Flower(s) / I wonder whose skin this crimson flower will touch

Flower(s) vol.1 is the opening chapter of a long-term photographic series that explores the cultural and symbolic relationships between flowers and local communities across the world.

This first volume centres on Japan, where Teresa Freitas photographed the traditions around safflower dyeing in Yamagata Prefecture. At its core, the work reflects on the fragile yet enduring relationship between a flower and those who cultivate, transform, and celebrate it – a relationship sustained through gestures of attention and care.

Each story in the series takes its title from a poem, a folk tale, or a song. This first volume echoes the haiku of Japanese poet Matsuo Bashō, who in the 17th century undertook his own journey to the north. Moving between documentary and poetic registers, the work reflects on colour, tradition, and everyday life, while the accompanying texts by writer Danielle Demetriou, floral designer Carolin Ruggaber, and painter Inès Longevial expand on the themes of impermanence, resilience, and continuity.