This painting pays homage to my southern upbringing paralleled with a strong emphasis on native southeastern flowers and weeds. Each painting focuses on the region’s natural beauty and the importance of conservation. My family has always had a deep connection to nature, with both my mother and sister being master gardeners and my father having founded the Foothills Trail. I grew up surrounded by gardens finding the woods and nature as both my refuge and inspiration.
While my work primarily focuses on native plants, I have also incorporated a subtle tribute to the honey bee, which plays a critical role in our survival. The decline of the honey bee population due to environmental degradation is a cause for concern, and I hope to raise awareness about this issue through my paintings. “In the Weeds” features a single honey bee, encouraging viewers to take a closer look and appreciate the intricate details of the artwork.
By celebrating the native gardens and biodiversity of the southeast, I hope to emphasize the importance of preserving our natural resources. Bees are essential to our food supply, with over one-third of the American diet relying on crops pollinated by honey bees. Sadly, these insects are facing massive die-offs each year in North America, making it more crucial than ever to protect their habitats and promote conservation efforts.
