A Rooted House (2024)
Handmade paper with turmeric powder and Indian elm seeds, hemp and sisal fibers, photo print
6.3 x 8.66 inches, with fiber root extensions reaching 23.62 inches

My artwork, "A Rooted House," is a mixed media piece reflecting the symbiotic relationship between humans and their environment. The house, embedded with Indian elm seeds, symbolizes the resilience and persistence of nature breaking through man-made barriers. These seeds signify growth, renewal, and the cycle of life, suggesting that the concept of home is deeply intertwined with the broader web of life. The long, tangled red braids extend beyond the paper, representing complexity and interconnectedness. They convey the idea of expansion and breaking free from constraints, emphasizing that our homes are an extension of our identity and sense of self. This piece aims to highlight the interconnectedness of all living things and the idea that humans are not separate from nature but rather an integral part of it. Through this work, I hope to suggest that the supporting power of roots keeps us connected with each other, no matter where we live, through our heritage, families, and migrations.