Rob Kesseler Books

Science and art collaborate to reveal a stunning, even sensual, microscopic world. Three landmark books -- Pollen , Seeds and Fruit -- were published in 2006 and 2008 to rave "breathtaking," "ravishing," "spectacular," "enlightening," "truly revelatory" and "beautiful almost beyond description." In The Bizarre and Incredible World of Plants , the authors bring the best of these books together in one volume that is a fascinating union of art and science. Visual artist Rob Kesseler uses special light techniques and scanning electron microscopy to create astonishing images of a variety of pollens, seeds and fruits. His razor-sharp cross sections reveal intricate interiors, pods, pouches, keys and other examples of botanical architecture and seed dispersal. Seed morphologist Wolfgang Stuppy and palynologist Madeline Harley deftly explain the botanical purposes of the pollens, seeds and fruit, how they fulfill their missions and their roles in preserving the biodiversity of our planet. Literary references to plant reproduction are featured along with early botanical illustrations. The Bizarre and Incredible World of Plants is groundbreaking in its intimate examination of plant reproduction. It is an essential reference for artists, designers and photographers and will fascinate gardeners and general readers.

Seeds, the most complex organs produced by plants, ensure the biodiversity of our planet. In this book, the evolution of their highly sophisticated structures from prehistoric times onwards makes fascinating reading as do the wiles plants use to attract and deceive their chosen pollinators. It features images that accompany each story.

The book explores the intricate and beautiful design of pollen grains, revealing a hidden world that is typically invisible to the naked eye. Through the collaboration of an artist and a scientist, it combines artistic insights with scientific discovery, highlighting the remarkable complexity and significance of these microscopic organisms. This unique perspective invites readers to appreciate the beauty and function of pollen in nature, bridging the gap between art and science.

A remarkable collaboration of nature, art and photography, celebrating the beauty of fruit.The landmark books Seeds and Pollen were published in 2006 to rave reviews-with adjectives ranging from "breathtaking" to "spectacular," from "spellbinding" to "dazzling."This companion title examines why fruits exist and how their short lives are critical to the natural order. Visual artist Rob Kesseler uses special light and scanning electron microscopy to create astonishing images of a variety of fruits and the seeds they shelter. His razor-sharp cross-sections reveal intricate interiors and pods, pouches, keys, nuts and other examples of botanical architecture. Seed morphologist Wolfgang Stuppy deftly explains the formation, development and demise of fruit. Literary, historical and artistic references to fruit are included as well.Fruit is groundbreaking in its intimate examination of plant reproduction. An essential source and reference for artists, designers and gardeners, this stunning book will fascinate any reader interested in the natural world and biological structures.(200910)

The extraordinary beauty and structure of pollen grains invisible to the naked eye. This book is the result of the shared fascination of an artist and a scientist with the perfect design of organisms too small to be seen without a microscope. It is suitable for scientists, artists and photographers alike.

Botanist Madeline Harley pairs clear, informative descriptions with exquisite photographs to provide unsurpassed coverage of almost 200 British weedy species. Now, for the first time, enthusiasts and non- specialists alike will be able to confidently identify these underappreciated plants.

""Who would have thought that a book about seeds could be a stunning work of art? ... Anyone who believes that life and art are inseparable will want to purchase this book immediately." -- Choice" The publication of the first edition of "Seeds" broke new ground by melding art and science in a beautiful yet authoritative examination of the design and function of seeds. This new edition contains 60 spectacular new photographs published here for the first time. In addition, the book contains a fully updated chapter about the Millennium Seed Bank Project and its recent acquisitions. Microphotographs and detailed cutaway images reveal the intricate architecture of pods, pouches, keys and nuts of various sizes, from minute to relatively enormous. Concise text explains their formation and maturation and describes the clever dispersal methods that set off each plant's reproduction cycle. Literary references and early botanical illustrations complement the scientific perspective and create a comprehensive collection of data. This new edition of "Seeds," with its new images and updated text, is truly remarkable and will be welcomed by botanists, serious gardeners and collectors of unusual art.

Ein beeindruckender Bildband über die Welt der Pflanzensamen mit über 260 elektronenmikroskopischen Aufnahmen. Verständliche Texte erläutern Evolution, Struktur und Funktion der Samen sowie deren Bedeutung. Ein Extra-Kapitel widmet sich der "Millennium Seed Bank". Ideal für Biolog*innen und Naturfotografie-Liebhaber.

Wie Blütenpflanzen sich mit Hilfe von Pollen vermehren, zeigt dieser spektakuläre Band. Der Künstler Rob Kesseler betrachtet die kleinsten Bausteine des pflanzlichen Lebens unter dem Rasterelektronenmikroskop. Seine hoch aufgelösten Bilder enthüllen die unglaubliche Formenvielfalt von Blüten und Pollen und sind Meisterwerke der Pflanzenfotografie. Mit wissenschaftlicher Genauigkeit und ansteckender Begeisterung beschreibt Madeline Harley Evolution und Artenreichtum der Pollen sowie den Prozess der Bestäubung und Befruchtung. Behutsam und präzise vermittelt die Botanikerin das nötige Hintergrundwissen und öffnet uns damit das Tor zu einer verborgenen erotischen Welt.