Aliens live among us. No, they're probably not the aliens of science fiction, but there are species that live such fantastically different lives that they might as well be from outer space. I count lichens among these creatures. Lichens, as you may recall from Biology 101, are life forms that blend a fungus and an algae; the fungus provides structure and a sheltered environment, while the embedded algae cells provide (through photosynthesis) the nutrients for survival and growth of both themselves and the host fungus. Actually, now that I think about it, the arrangement seems more like slavery than symbiosis, since the algae can live very well on its own. Oh well, nature goes about its business without regard to human values.

I have always found the details of nature more interesting than whole landscapes. Upon stopping to photograph along a back road in Michigan's Upper Peninsula, I was first struck by the intricate details of the lichen, which was growing on a rock left behind during the last glacial age. The incredible detail of the lichen structure would make a wonderful textural photograph. When I began viewing possible compositions through the viewfinder, I realized that the lichen was a human form in disguise - complete with a new age aura! Suddenly my composition became clear - an alien design for a truly alien subject

Lee Rentz

lee@leerentz.com