Lichen Geography No.1

A small 6.5 x 6.5 painting on handmade paper, with watercolor and inks. 

This piece would look beautiful in a glass floating frame.

Inspired by lichen, symbiosis, and thriving under difficult conditions. 

Lichens are a classic example of symbiosis, specifically a mutually beneficial partnership between a fungus and a photosynthetic partner, usually algae or cyanobacteria, where the fungus provides structure and protection, and the algae/cyanobacteria provide food (sugars) through photosynthesis, allowing them to thrive in harsh environments where neither could survive alone. Some new research has also shown that sometimes there are more than two partners.

The lichen relationship was so groundbreaking when discovered in the 1860s that the term “symbiosis” was coined to describe it. What more perfect subject for me to focus on to start creating work within this theme?

10% of the proceeds will go to the Women’s Earth Alliance.