ArtQuartet News – Autumn 2024
Mother Earth II (Section) © Sally Parker, ArtQuartet
Autumn
by Sally Parker
Welcome to my autumn blog!
Yes, this blog is earlier than planned, as I will be travelling during the autumn equinox. I will be writing, however, about my discoveries from my travels in the next blog for winter, so do return for more inspiration!
During the summer, I thoroughly enjoyed working on an ecological project. At the same time, I introduced more natural paints and materials into my working process: Paints labelled non-toxic are considered safe for humans but not necessarily for the environment, especially if they find their way into our water systems. Therefore, painting materials should always be disposed of responsibly. Given the dangers of plastic within our natural world, I felt the need to assess my working practices, particularly the use of acrylic paint. As plant-based paints are free of toxic additives, petrochemicals, solvents, and carcinogenic ingredients, it is healthier for our planet and my health to follow a working transition towards natural paints and materials.
The only working differences between plant-based paints and acrylic, egg tempera and watercolour paints are the limited colours available. However, natural pigments are more ‘earthy’ and ‘organic’ and produce a unique colour palette. The texture of the paint is thinner and, therefore, more challenging to retain brushwork, but this has advantages in other ways. I have tried making impasto medium, but it has not yielded the expected results. However, there are ready-made natural mediums available which I have yet to try out. So far, using these natural pigments has enhanced the integrity of my work, perfect for my mother earth themes, which reflect authentic earth energy but, at the same time, have endorsed the fragility and transience of nature.
HEALING GARDEN
MAHONIA
Mahonia (Berberis aquifolium or Mahonia aquifolium)is a flowering evergreen shrub and medicinal herb. Its bark and root have been used in traditional herbalism for centuries, and its tincture is often referred to as a ‘bitter tonic’ that is thought to aid digestion and liver function. Modern apothecaries offer formulated skin gels to support the skin’s natural health.
Indigenous Americans of the northwest were aware of the healing properties of mahonia; some ate the berries* and used preparations of the shrub for medicinal purposes. Dye would be extracted from the flowers and used for fabrics or basketry. Mahonia in the USA since the 19th century has been known by various names, such as California Barbery, Oregan Grape Holly, Rockey Mountain Grape, and ‘Oregon Grape’.
I look forward to seeing the bright yellow flowers of mahonia in the autumn. The sight of bright yellow ‘sunshine’ flowers is uplifting and healing. The flowers are rich sources of pollen and nectar for insects and provide them with extra sustenance during mild autumn and winter days. The berries provide winter food for the birds. The weather was sunny and mild in late autumn last year when I walked into the garden and heard a distant humming. It felt like summer once again! I followed the gentle buzzing until I reached the location of a mahonia. Magnificent yellow flowers sprinkled its branches, and I was amazed to see it was covered in honey bees. Most likely, they had flown from a local hive and were making the most of their last feast before hibernating.
I have always found the branches of this shrub intriguing. The leaves change colour from various shades: mellow green, subtle yellow, vibrant red, and striking orange. The bark is richly textured, and the branches weave and contort to form its character.
Folklore
The way the shrub sways with the direction of the wind whispers Mother Earth’s wisdom: After a storm, mahonia branches look dishevelled, but due to their flexibility, they have survived with minor damage.
The language of flowers or floriography associates mahonia with prosperity.
Mahonia is a treasured feature in my garden, where I listen, observe, and paint. Perhaps mahonia berries would be helpful for my plant-based painting experiments…
Thank you for reading, and I wish you a happy and healthy autumn season!
Best wishes
Sally
*Although I have found posts advocating the use of the berries in jams and the flowers in cordials, ‘the long-term internal use of Oregon grape has not been studied. Until there is clinical data on the safety of long-term use, it is not recommended to take Oregon grape internally for an extended period.’ Sheldon, 13.2.24
Sheldon Dawn, Very Well Health (13th February 2024)
www.montmarte.com/blogs/tips-techniques/10-tips-for-how-to-dispose-of-acrylic-paint-thoughtfully