
Hope in the Midst of Our Plight
McLean, VA
2024, Senior, Art: Handcrafted (2024 – )

Reflection
Reflection
Often I overlooked the reality of climate change, failing to grasp its severity. Although I had seen climate change reports containing alarming statistics, I struggled to connect these with my daily life. However, after unforeseen events, such as missing out on a field trip due to the smoke from the wildfires in Canada along with spontaneous weather patterns, I realized the issue was more imminent than I had assumed. As more negative impacts resulted, solutions for climate change were also being established in my community. Taxing plastic bags in groceries, fundraising for climate initiatives, and limiting food waste were some of the many examples of new strategies to inspire change. Through my artwork, I wanted to communicate the message of hope amidst the climate crisis. Through my depiction of Mother Nature, with hair cascading like a waterfall while holding a bouquet of daisies, I illustrated the hope we can see from Mother Nature who is mitigating the effects of climate change. As the water flows through Mother Nature, it becomes purer and cleaner, symbolizing the hope and aspirations humanity stores despite the perils of climate change. Mother Nature holding a bouquet in front of her face represents optimism and hope for a solution to the dire issue of our climate.