Chasing an Idyllic Dream

Nilofer Khan takes a stroll down the jubilant, bewitching landscapes created by Bethany de Forest and discovers numerous narratives that are carefully intertwined within them.

- Nilofer Khan

While growing up, we believed in an enchanted realm that exists beyond our reality. Home to various mysterious beings, the place offered exhilarating adventures at every nook and cranny. For instance, one could traverse through dense, mystical forests to defeat diabolical wizards. As we approached adulthood, this mythical world gradually ceased to exist. But for some, this was just the beginning; a gateway to a new life. One such person is Bethany de Forest, whose breathtaking work oscillates between reality and fiction.

Finding Her Vision

Her series largely revolves around two recurring themes—nature and cityscapes. As pleasing as these scenes may be, they also emanate a sense of anticipation, as if something is yet to unfold in front of you. “I like these themes as they are very recognisable to the viewer. It deceives them into believing that they are looking at a ‘real’ place. Often, it is a hyperrealistic and overly romantic version of reality,” she says.