Lauren Dillon

Eternal Youth

12” x 12” Fern color collections

" ‘Eternal Youth’ is a study and reflection on the mystery and miraculous nature that surrounds the Fern, both in nature and mythology. As the wilderness of our world continues to shrink at an astounding pace this collection celebrates the value of discovering a grove of wild growth ferns still hidden and protected from the pressures of modern development. Capturing the textures and the colors that define these species is at the heart of the work. Removing the color from the frond to truly express the textures and forms of these native plants allows the viewer to see the complexity and
processes of growth within a fern’s lifespan. Bringing color back into the fold by laying out in a grid like fashion gives definition and symmetry to the complexity of range of color expressed in a single plant. As humans we many times oversimplify the natural world and at the heart of my work lies a desire to truly engage the viewer with the natural world and to express the complexity and variety that is present within the elements that surround us daily. Expressing form at its foundational level allows the viewer to truly understand the unique details present at the smallest of levels in the natural world.
All of the work, including the color boards, are created using plaster. Each color was created by the artist using earthen pigments blended with plaster. Thus, all of these works are derived of the earthen world and will one day be able to return back to nature. Rejecting modern materials of acrylics, resins, and synthetics, this collection truly expresses natural elements with natural materials, building upon the Fern’s ancient symbolism of eternal youth and new beginnings."

Choose ‘Pick Up’ option at checkout if you are local and wish to pick up at Cottage Grove to avoid shipping costs.