Rhododendron continues my Art Nouveau series, inspired by both the trees in my garden and the work of artists such as Alphonse Mucha. In these paintings, I replace the female figure typical of Mucha’s compositions with botanical specimens. The plant becomes central, monumental and framed by decorative line and typography.
Rhododendrons are an ancient genus, with evolutionary origins stretching back millions of years. Many species developed in mountainous regions such as the Himalayas, adapting to cold, altitude, acidic soils and shifting light. Their thick evergreen leaves and dense clustered blooms are not delicate gestures, but structures shaped by endurance.
The text embedded in the upper section reads:
“you’ve travelled so far in a million years and endured such hardships to find yourself in this place where you thrive.”