Into the Forest

Years ago when in college, I read a novel by Jean Hegland titled “ Into The Forest." The narrative follows two young sisters struggling to survive in the Northern California forest as society collapses around them. The idea of an apocalyptic, not so distant future seems pervasive in today’s world racked by wars, climate change, terrorist attacks, pollution and dwindling resources. My new paintings share the underlying concept of the novel, in which survivors are forced to turn to the forest’s plants and animals for sustenance, shelter and courage. In my artwork, the natural world becomes a place of myth, wonder and danger. Its inhabitants are guardian spirits. Seeds, rocks, trees and plants are closely examined. A child-like longing to return to a more natural state takes hold. Each painting is a journey into the woodlands, more often imagined rather than taken. In each work, the forest is a source of inspiration and comfort, offering a place of peaceful introspection.