Through my use of contrasts and symbols, I describe the patterns I see in nature, offering an intrinsic look into what I believe in. In Medicine Roots, I illustrate my awakening awareness towards the need to protect the natural environment I live in. Inspired by the ferns that begin to surface and grow in the spring near my home, this image is replicated in such a way as to illustrate a resurgence of not only nutritive, medicinal organisms through efforts to protect, but the re-awakening of a larger population’s drive to care and nurture the earth. Beneath the ferns are the roots that are just as integral to this survival. The stones in the earth are akin to the stars in the sky, and as a whole, we are all connected and able to communicate.

In this illustration I have shown what I feel is happening at this very moment in my life, in my time, and at this point in my artistic journey. It is a hopeful vision – exhibiting my emerging sense of responsibility as an artist – helping in ways that I am able to for a strong and healthy existence in relation to the earth, sky, and space.

Phyllis Grant