The Roots series originates from a desire to illustrate the importance of how roots are the foundation of providing stability, nourishment, and sustenance.  My interest was sparked by how the different aspects of people’s lives mimic the structure of roots found in nature.  This concept prompted me to focus on the subject of roots.  There is a symbiotic relationship between roots and Mother Nature and between a person and their family, community, and environment.  These images bring a deeper thoughtfulness to the meaning of roots and how the word applies to people like it does in nature, it also brings into perspective the symbiotic relationships.

          I am inspired by the simplicities and complexities of roots.  Some roots are young and tender, and others are mature and thick, just like relationship between children and adults.  Roots provide stability and connectivity to the plant, parallel to how peoples’ emotions and experiences shape their connectivity with society.  Metaphorically, roots determine who a person is and how they relate to different life experiences.  Roots that have endured the atrocities of nature still exist to provide and support for the plant.  Just like people who have endured emotional trauma continue to strive for survival.  Some roots go dormant for the winter and disconnect from the environment, like people sometimes do with society.  However, come springtime the cycle of seasons begins again and the dormant plant like people will awaken to engage with the instinctive pattern of nature.