My work explores what I call the Gaia Aesthetic; our reciprocal relationship with nature. It examines the interconnectedness that we experience as a tiny part of a vast universe, sharing the same elements as stars and breathing the same air as the smallest creatures.
Female figures are often featured as symbolic main characters as in this self-portrait. They speak to the life-giving nature of our bodies, the nurturing aspects of our character, and the responsibility we carry to leave the world better than we found it.
Themes from nature are woven into these portraits to further reinforce the concept of interconnectedness and illustrate specific symbolic associations from myths and legends. In this particular portrait, I chose a spiral galaxy for the background, tying in to the symbolism of spirals and stars that have been present in my work for many years. Throughout all, there is a sense of wonder and joy expressed in bright colors and attention to detail.
Inspiration:
It can feel foolish to pause to marvel at the stars when the world is burning. Or to find the world beautiful when you’ve known it to betray you. But wonder is a liberation practice. A reminder that we contain more than tragedy. Beauty is our origin and our anchor. Black Liturgies
I’m here to live a life
rooted in wonder,
to follow the rhythm of the earth,
to create gently and love wildly,
to build a life that feels
like sunlight and soft moss.
I’m here to stir something
deeper than myself,
to manifest dreams
with roots and wings,
to walk the untamed path
with a heart wide open.
And to keep finding the magic
tucked between the trees. Unknown
The blood flowing through your veins contains iron, an element forged in the core of dying stars. You are stardust. Unknown
