Based on the characteristics that I learned from Alexandra and research that I conducted on various plant symbolism, I was able to gather everything and create this sculpture. Each plant, the container, and the colors used was intentionally done to portray my partner.
I discovered that Alexandra’s family is always in her heart no matter where she is or what she is doing. She is connected with her siblings and is remembered of them at all times. Even with this new distance that has been caused because of college, their bond remains strong and unbreakable So this became what I wanted to focus on the most for this sculpture because it is evident that it is a very important aspect of her life and a part of who she is. Because of this bond, I was inspired to explore plants that symbolize strength, love, continuity, etc. This lead me to ivy, bamboo, and the yucca tree whom all symbolize the characteristics I would like to portray Alexandra with. All three of these plants represent continuity, everlasting love, protection, and growth. Which to me, are also definitions of family.
I am using an open truncated tetrahedron as the container for my plants. The open triangles will be filled with intertwined ivy plants. As triangles are the strongest shape, this will further exemplify the strength that brings together the everlasting love, protection, growth, and protection represented by the plants which are represented by this moment in Alexandra’s life. The strength of these triangles are holding up this entire piece and unifying all of these different characteristics together.
It is accented with the gold because the color represents love, compassion, and courage.
I used the Yucca tree to represent protection. It has a very strong and dense bark body and thick and long leaves. I used this tree to connect that Alexandra’s family will always be there to protect her and she is there to protect them. As a unite family they are unstoppable and are always there for one another.
I used bamboo to represent growth. I wanted to demonstrate that with the new distance between Alexandra and her family due to college, she is able to grow and prosper. This new moment and journey in life will be one where she will be tested for all of her experiences and one that is away from her family. It is her time to grow and be independent.
Thirdly, Ivy represents continuous love. I incorporated ivy throughout this piece to represent that above all, love is the most important element that your family gives. Unconditional love, holding together and being everything that Alexandra is.
