Reciprocity

Reciprocity is a site-specific sculpture that explores the intersection of spirituality and nature through the state of impermanence. The awe inspired by wilderness inspires to reciprocate the gifts the Earth bestows upon us. By creating an altar using materials foraged from the land or compostable, this work is an offering meant to express gratitude. It is made from Earth building with soil and cattail fluff, eggshell composite, naturally dyed agar, dry flowers, and a live sharp-lobed hepatica (Hepatica acutiloba). Once presented to the public, the sculpture was returned to the origin of the foraged materials to decompose and the hepatica was replanted. Over time, bacteria and fungi added their touch, introducing new colors, textures and forms. Ultimately, the altar returned to the Earth, completing the cycle.