(SOLD) ‘Where We Become Each Other’ - Original 16x20 Painting

UPDATE: THIS PAINTING IS SOLD AND PENDING PAYMENT FROM A COLLECTOR

‘Where We Become Each Other’

As I’ve been researching threatened ecosystems, lichen has caught my attention. Not just because of the inspiring shapes and colors, but because of what they stand for.

For many Indigenous peoples, the presence of certain lichens was seen as an indicator of a healthy ecosystem and good air quality.

The complex, interconnected nature of lichen life forms (fungi and algae living together) is seen by some as a metaphor for the interconnectedness of all living things.

And there’s this word that keeps coming up when I read about lichen: symbiosis

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.

The lichen relationship was so groundbreaking when discovered in the 1860s that the term “symbiosis” was coined to describe it. I had no idea that lichen is the reason this powerful word came to be!

It’s a beautiful metaphor for our relationship with nature, too: at least, the relationship I believe we SHOULD have with nature. Perhaps a bit romantic, but that’s ok.

PAINTING DETAILS:

• 16x20
• Watercolor, Ink, Gold Leaf 
• On 3/4 inch canvas
• Edges are gilded with gold leaf 
• Comes with optional complimentary framing in a black wood floating frame.
• Prints will not be made of this piece.

Please email me if you have any questions! Email: rokitaartist@gmail.com

More about the artist: About Rokita