Growing hurts. Transformation is a bumpy ride full of obstacles, but it is the only way to progress. As Frederick Douglass said: "If there is no struggle, there is no progress." I have witnessed the truth behind these words over and over again from my own experience and from observing other people.
Based on this idea I felt the urge to create a series of works that were visually provocative. Something that suggested growth and transformation. Something that shaked my senses a little bit. That's how I started working on Femina Plantarum.
I think that growth has a lot to do with reaching into dark places and with being brave enough to look at those places in the eye. For the tree to grow strong and healthy there is always the roots deeply embedded in the darkness of the soil. To become a strong and emotionally healthy person we need to deal with the dark side of life.
Light and darkness, day and night: two sides of a coin. We need to embrace both, the positive and the negative aspects of life because both are part of what we are. In order to go/grow in the right direction and to make good use of our potential we need to be in peace both sides of the coin.
Indeed there is something both sensual and frightening about this piece, particularly the red groove running up the plants middle, which for me is evocative of, yes, growth, a split, a wound, female sexuality, beauty, mystery. It's pretty awesome.
Posted by: Melissa Crowe | February 23, 2012 at 07:54 AM
bellooooo
Posted by: clarisa | February 23, 2012 at 08:27 AM
Your comment reminded me of the quotation from Joseph Campbell in the Power of Myth. "No sacrifice, No Bliss". My life experience has taught me that this is true....though often painful. I applaud your courage for entering this Zone of exploration in your art.
Susan
Posted by: Susan Jonsson | February 23, 2012 at 10:23 AM
Hi Elsa :)
I feel lucky to be able to see this series before the show your putting them in! Checking daily to see what awaits. Would it be rude to ask what mediums you are using and have you already completed the entire series? Thank you!
Posted by: Christine | February 23, 2012 at 10:50 AM
Wonderful Elsita!!! xxx
Posted by: LoisCollins | February 23, 2012 at 11:35 AM
Beautiful!!
Posted by: Mariella :) | February 23, 2012 at 05:42 PM
are you going to be at Miami, Elsita?
Posted by: Irene | February 24, 2012 at 04:36 AM
Elsa, I love what you wrote here. It is very true, & a very timely piece of wisdom for me, personally, right now. As always, the paintings are lovely too.
Posted by: Lee Ferguson | February 24, 2012 at 07:20 AM
this series IS visually provocative. it speaks to my soul, also frightens or seduces me.. i am enjoying every part you are sharing.
Posted by: krista | February 27, 2012 at 05:59 AM
looking forward for your next post.
Posted by: Essaychampions.com | February 28, 2012 at 02:03 AM
thank you for sharing article!It is very true, & a very timely piece of wisdom for me, personally, right now. I will continue noticing your blog!
Posted by: abercrombie and fitch | February 29, 2012 at 11:36 PM
I can't wait till than I have a few people I want to ivtine so if there is limited space please let me know and is there going to be a cost or do we need to bring something with us?
Posted by: Sanjeev | April 16, 2012 at 03:59 AM