Skye Tao - The Eight Immortals
"The Eight Immortals" is a captivating still-life photography series featuring eight distinct vegetables – lotus roots, water caltrops, seeds of Euryale ferox, arrowheads, water bamboos, water chestnuts, water shields, and water celery, originally from Suzhou, China. Each vegetable, deeply rooted in Chinese culture, is transformed into sculptural art, paying homage to a legendary tale of heavenly beings planting these vegetables for protection. Beyond their culinary importance, these vegetables symbolize cultural history and generations of dedicated cultivation. This project celebrates the labor-intensive process, honouring the role of these vegetables in nourishing Suzhou and preserving centuries-old traditions. The images bridge the past and present, highlighting the connection between nature's abundance, the significance of water, and the enduring value of these vegetables. Through this series, the wisdom of "The Eight Immortals" harmonizes with modern creativity, ensuring the continued significance of these vegetables for future generations.