Destroying something in order to create something can sound a bit counter-intuitive. Then you stop to think about Eton Mess, and how battering meringues into chunks leads to the creation of a delicious dessert, and it makes sense again. Or you could go look at the gorgeous images in Alexander James’ ‘Fusion’ series.

He’s photographed the results of starting chemical reactions (flames! smoke!) inside of beautiful balls of flowers. The flowers are gorgeous to start with, the chemical reaction within the ball looks incredible, and then eventually there is nothing left but cinders.

If you want to see an edited selection of the images in high res, head over to the DistilEnnui website. You’re even in with a chance of winning a framed limited edition of 10 prints. (It’s worth £1,260!) Either register as a user on Alexander James’ stock library, or follow his Twitter feed!