Barks

Scrutinising tree trunks may not be your favourite activity, but it is worth taking the time to do so. Bark protects trees from external threats (wind, cold, fire, etc.). In its most common sense, the term refers to the external, dead, cracked tissue that sometimes peels off in patches. A tree can be recognised by its bark, even though its appearance may vary depending on the region, age, exposure, and the presence or absence of lichens and mosses. It is impermeable, but allows gas exchange for the respiration of the living tissue cells underneath, including the phloem. This part of the tree, just under the bark, is generally soft and whitish and corresponds to the most recent areas of growth. Damage to the bast can slow down or stop the growth of all or part of the tree.
Some barks are armed with thorns. In the event of injury, they heal and form ridges that cover the wood if the wounds are small. Often rich in toxins and bitter compounds, they play a protective role, but are also a source of medicinal properties.
The bark helps to straighten the stem and, like the leaves and roots, can capture and accumulate various pollutants, especially in urban and industrial areas or near roads.
But what interests me most in my work is that bark can be very colourful. Of course, the bark of exotic trees is more vivid (such as that of the rainbow eucalyptus) and more surprising, but all bark is worth taking a closer look at. Photographer Cédric Pollet is convinced of this. He has dedicated a trilogy to it.
To find out more about bark, click here.
Bark colours that have inspired me
Untitled, 28 June 2025: rainbow eucalyptus.
Untitled, 15 June 2025: stone pine.
Untitled, 21 October 2024: a branch covered in lichens (found in my garden).
Untitled, 19 February 2023: unidentified tree.
Untitled, 6 March 2020: Eucalyptus pauciflora.
Untitled, 1 December 2019: unidentified tree.