I, You, We Rise Rooted
Story /
An empowered woman, rooted in her innate feminine body wisdom and deep connection to the earth rises, no longer willing to stand idly by while the earth, our home, is disrespected and abused.
This piece is directly inspired by the rallying call sung out by Sharon Blackie in the transformative book ‘If Woman Rose Rooted’. This woman stands tall and firm in the confident knowing that she does not rise alone, for there are increasingly more guardians of the land stepping forward to defend the soil, birds, bees, trees, whales, oceans, and so much more that we all collectively call home.
Context /
In the summer of 2023, the Nelson exhibited a vast and stunning collection of Giacometti's work; and I was able to meet his Grand Femme II in person.
I was quite awestruck by her grandeur.
Towering over us at 9' tall,
She was primordial,
dramatic and soulful
with expressive curves
like her soul leapt out at me
raw
confident
sobering.
I decided I wanted to learn from her.
What is her magical elixir of energy?
And how can I conjure my own?
I managed to sketch her out before the museum closed.
For awhile, she just kept me company like this,
until I could find the time to add color.
Once I added color things sort of took on a life of their own.
As any good art will do!
I added storytelling and myth.
Eventually a key arrived,
I accepted my position as threshold guardian
and opener of the way.
The initiation is now an invitation
for myself,
for you,
for anyone
to Rise Rooted
like the beautiful ancient rainbow woman!
Scope /
Story and Illustration for Personal and Collective Identity Visioning
Created 6/19/23
Media /
Pencil, Japanese Watercolor, Paper, Yarn, Dried Okra Stalk
32”W x 40”H
