Reflection

Reflection

The idea for my piece comes from memories of growing up in rural southern Taiwan, where nature was part of our stories, culture, and everyday life. I often think of the tales my grandmother shared from her Tsou heritage, which taught me that nature is not just a resource but a force to respect. Reflecting on this year’s theme, I realized my deepest connection to nature is rooted in my ancestry. The carved boar—a traditional Tsou symbol—represents nature as a giver of life, and the elder passing down knowledge reflects how these values endure across generations. The graphite homes show the coexistence of nature and modernity, possible only when we honor the natural world. I chose colored pencil and watercolor to echo the vibrancy of tribal clothing and the landscapes of my childhood. Creating this piece made me reconnect with who I am and where I come from. As cities grow and technology draws us inward, protecting nature feels more urgent than ever. My message is simple: look closer. In your past, your culture, or the world around you—there is always something to learn. Nature has shaped us, and if we want it to keep nurturing us, we must understand, respect, and protect it.