Gardens of Emotions
Sometimes, life surprises you with unexpected connections. Last year, I came across a book that profoundly impacted me—Lietuvos Vizionieres by the wonderfully talented Elena Gasiulytė. I was immediately captivated by her writing, which was honest, raw, and full of emotion. So much so that I couldn’t resist sharing my admiration on social media. To my surprise, Elena responded, and this seemingly small interaction sparked a friendship I cherish deeply.
After a few messages, I decided to be bold and invite her for a coffee. I’ll admit, I was nervous at first, but our conversation flowed effortlessly, as if we had known each other for years. What intrigued me even more was that Elena writes under the theme “Elenas Garden of Emotions,” exploring complex emotional landscapes and mental health. As we continued to talk, an idea began to form in my mind—why not photograph Elena in her actual garden? It felt like a perfect representation of her work, combining both the literal and metaphorical gardens that she tends to with so much care.
Last month, we made it happen. I was fortunate to visit her garden, a serene and intimate space that felt like an extension of her soul. The vibrant colors, lush greenery, and delicate blooms created a dreamlike backdrop, complementing her quiet strength and vulnerability. Elena seemed perfectly at home, moving among the tomato and basil plants as if she was one with them—each petal, leaf, and ray of sunlight reflecting her inner world.
The photoshoot wasn’t just about capturing beautiful images; it was about capturing Elena’s essence. Her writing touches on the deep currents of human emotion, and being in her garden felt like stepping into the very pages of her work. As I clicked the shutter, I could feel the stories she’s written, the emotions she’s shared, and the honesty that drew me to her book in the first place.
I’m excited to share some of these photos, as they encapsulate not only the beauty of the garden but also the depth of Elena’s spirit. And this one more proof of how magic can happen in the little moments of serendipity that sparks the creativity we share, and the gardens—literal and emotional—that we tend to.
Watch a little behind-the-scenes video here.
