Dominik Tarabański: Merging Nature and Artistry

Dominik Tarabański, a Polish-born artist, began his "Roses for Mother" series in 2018 as a heartfelt gesture, sending floral photographic compositions to his mother while he traveled. These creations were intended as symbolic postcards, offering her glimpses of the world through his eyes. The collection is currently featured at Bergdorf Goodman as part of Gabriella Khalil's design residency, and will remain on display through August 2026.

Tarabański, who was born in Radymno, Poland, in 1982, honed his photographic skills in Łódź and Warsaw before relocating to New York in 2012. He describes his move to New York as a profound journey, akin to "going to the moon," a decision solidified during a three-week visit. While fashion photography supported his travels between major cities like New York, Paris, and London, his true passion lay in creating still lifes by hand, away from the demands of commercial shoots. His artistic vision revolves around the "intersection of synthetic and organic," manipulating natural forms into arrangements that echo Dutch floral paintings. These large-scale prints, often exceeding two meters, possess a sculptural quality, transforming simple elements like rubber bands and dried stems into what he calls "magic" – where "nothing becomes something." This deliberate delicacy contrasts with the increasing harshness he perceives in the modern world.

Tarabański’s recent series, "Between Stems," delves into the theme of pressure, meticulously arranging botanical elements such as knotweed, orchids, and lilies under tension. This work explores the breaking point of nature, representing how much strain an object can endure before succumbing. This collection was showcased earlier this year at FOG Design+Art in San Francisco with LA gallery Marta, alongside the works of Minjae Kim. A forthcoming solo exhibition in New York, also presented by Marta, is scheduled for autumn 2026. This exhibition will feature works from "Little Roses," a complementary series that includes pieces ranging from palm-sized to those towering over Tarabański himself. His daily physical routine instills a sense of composure, preparing him for the day's creative endeavors, while his mother has influenced his optimism and sensitivity. He embraces a "very Polish" efficiency, a personal commitment to working diligently even when unobserved, and a determination to maintain his native language in a contemporary context, resisting the erosion of distance.

In his art, Tarabański navigates the dynamic interplay between the organic and the manufactured, inviting viewers to contemplate the delicate balance of existence. His compelling still lifes, inspired by personal journeys and cultural roots, resonate with a profound sense of connection and resilience. His commitment to creating beauty amidst complexity, and his pursuit of harmony in a fast-paced world, offer a timeless reflection on the human spirit's ability to find wonder in the everyday.