The Spirit in the Leaves is an ongoing series by Esther Boesche, envisioned as a year-long exploration unfolding throughout 2024-2025/26. This ambitious project delves into the countless ways “tree-ness” manifests—imagining trees in every conceivable situation and form.

The captivating watercolor series was inspired by The Overstory by Richard Powers and Cedric Pollet’s photography book about trees, Bark. The project celebrates the profound relationship between trees and humanity. Growing up immersed in the forests of Northern Germany, the artist developed a deep love for nature and spirituality, which serves as the foundation for this work. The series maps the essence of trees—how they exist, interact, and transform, things that happen to trees, their symbioses and “relationships” to nature, animals and humans—while embracing their magical and spiritual dimensions.

Using only blue tones, Boesche creates a surreal, dreamlike atmosphere, challenging traditional depictions of trees. The color blue symbolizes the ethereal and otherworldly qualities of trees, evoking their mystery and universal significance. By breaking the conventional rules of watercolor painting, the artist transforms so called “mistakes” to become powerful expressions of the trees’ essence.

The color blue’s ethereal and mystical quality and depth often conveys transcendence and the mythical, aligning it with themes of infinity and spiritual awakening. In art, blue is often associated with tranquility, depth, and introspection. It evokes a sense of calmness and vastness, connecting to the sky and ocean. Artists use blue to convey moods ranging from melancholy to serenity.

This intuitive, rule-defying method highlights Boesche’s once again very innovative artistry, making each piece a unique narrative about connection and wonder. Her work not only reflects the spiritual and magical side of trees but also redefines how art can represent the natural world, sparking new trends in contemporary painting.