Plates I-XXXI is a new book from German photographer Lia Darjes in which a series of silent, colourful images reveal unexpected night-time visitors, conjuring a seemingly magical parallel world that is closer than we think.

Squirrels, tits, slugs, field mice, ants, sparrows: these are some of the small animals that become the protagonists of Lia Darjes’ mysterious tale. Far from frightening, they captivate and charm with their furtive spirit.

In a style reminiscent of the Dutch masters who inspire her, Lia Darjes captures the secret life of these timid creatures. Placing the leftovers of a meal in her or her friend’s garden, she entrusts the ensuing spectacle to her camera, which she leaves outside for hours or days at a time, its shots triggered by movement. This encounter between staged and chance creates a documentary study of these fellow beings with whom we live side by side, and yet so separately from.

Chose Commune, 64pp. 2024, 26cm x 20cm, illustrated hardcover, 2024