CACTACEAE

The cactus is a shining example of how a living creature can thrive despite existing in some of the harshest conditions. An entity so vital to its ecosystem, the cactus knows its value and protects itself against anything keen on destroying it. A picture of beauty and life triumphing through hardship and trial. A symbiotic provider of life and nutrients within its biosphere. For an antagonist, a cactus presents as threatening, not to be harmed, with a defense system in place to protect the vitality within. 

This collection was born in the early stages of postpartum after giving birth to my beautiful daughter, Myla.  I was called to paint something beautiful, vibrant, and alive. Flowers were the initial idea, but  flowers have never been something I’ve  wanted to bring to life in my art. They  seem too happy and flawless. No struggles, just beauty. The cactus was a perfect balance of beauty and grit. While painting, I realized that in the first few months of  pregnancy, I was the cactus. Creating (and protecting) a precious life and providing  everything she required to grow in mind,  body, and spirit. All while facing a violent  battle raging against me and  my unborn child on the outside -  mind, body, and spirit.

Cactaceae

\cac·​ta·​ce·​ae.  kakˈtāsēˌē\ n : a family of plants (order Caryophyllales) consisting of the cacti.