LINGLING GUAN, Tidal Calligraphy (LANDSCAPE 2026)

This three-image series was photographed along the Qiantang River, Zhejiang, China, documents tidal tree formations shaped by the interaction of tide, sediment, and light. Along the river's mudflats, fine sediment settles during high tide. As the water withdraws, flowing currents carve branching channels into the soft surface, forming tree-like structures that appear, dissolve, and re-form with the changing tide. These transient patterns are created entirely by movement, leaving behind delicate traces once the water recedes. In this series, the first image shows three tidal trees under low-angle light. The second centers on a single formation illuminated by golden light. The final image presents two tidal trees resting on the sand after the tide has retreated, suggesting stillness and slow growth. Together, the works reflect moments where natural forces briefly align, allowing temporary forms to surface before returning to change.

Images have been resized for web display, which may cause some loss of image quality. Note: Original high-resolution images are used for judging.