Glazed ceramics, polymer clay, oil paint

24x12x11

2021

"Rainforest" is a sculptural homage to the fragile majesty of the world's rainforests, created to raise awareness about their ongoing destruction and to spark action towards their conservation. The inspiration for this work stems from the alarming deforestation trends observed throughout the 20th century, including extensive legal and illegal logging and agricultural clearance. This widespread devastation has not only reduced the expanse of these ecosystems but also put a quarter or more of Earth's species at risk of extinction within the next fifty years due to habitat loss.

In crafting "Rainforest," I chose to work with polymer clay and ceramics, materials that allow for detailed and expressive manipulation. Every floral element in this artwork, intricately sculpted from polymer clay, showcases hyper-realistic depictions. Each flower, stamen, and leaf is meticulously shaped by hand, embodying in this yellow cymbidium orchid the diversity and complexity of rainforest flora.

Additionally, the centerpiece of this artwork—a human head—was modeled by me from scratch using ceramics. This element was not cast but carefully sculpted to capture nuanced expressions and then finished with a glaze that enhances its depth and resonance. This choice underlines the intimate connection between humanity and nature, emphasizing the direct impact of human actions on these ecosystems.

By combining these elements, "Rainforest" seeks to engage viewers on both an intellectual and emotional level. The aim is for viewers to marvel at the beauty and intricacy of the rainforest, feel the weight of its potential loss, and be moved to contribute to its preservation. Through this artwork, I strive not only to showcase my technical skills and artistic evolution but also to foster a deeper appreciation and sense of responsibility for our natural world among viewers.