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Clamor from the Forest Floor: Ferns

I link the narrative of deep time — a geologic timeline of Earth’s natural history — with contemporary concerns about climate crises. Exploring the intersection of wild and cultivated landscapes, I envision a world where forests are preserved and green spaces are considered essential features of urban life.

In this series, I paint silhouetted shapes inspired by ferns that flourish in old growth forests and the edges of my backyard. Ferns are among the most primitive botanical life forms, having thrived for millions of years by adapting to an ever-changing environment. Old growth forests are unique markers of Earth’s timeline.

By combining painterly brushwork with the graphic quality of hand-cut stencils, I build layers of marks and glazes that result in unique patterns of biomorphic shapes. These shapes suggest fossil fragments, remnants of deep time. As I paint, I imagine how the forest floor might resemble the ocean floor, with currents that overlap above and beneath the surface. I focus my awareness of environmental concerns about sustainability and stewardship, while celebrating the beauty and exuberance of our natural world.

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