Reflection

I often find myself entranced by the beauty of rainy days, whether it comes to the vibrant colors that flow between the crevices of concrete and seemingly glide in thin, glassy layers across asphalt roads, or simply the delicate patterings on rooftops. Rain has always been a significant aspect of my life, especially as one who lives in Taiwan, a subtropical country where rain plagues the island from late spring to early summer. This piece was inspired by one of those "rainy moments" I experienced while waiting for the bus. In this piece, water represents creativity, how a simple layer of rainwater can paint a black asphalt road into a glamorous array of colors, the fluidity of it, and ultimately how life thrives within the presence of water. The fish that the girl is taking out for a walk are Formosan landlocked salmon, an endangered species of fish in Taiwan. Back in elementary school, I was lucky enough to get the chance to observe these beautiful creatures. While doing research on water, I specifically looked at the factors that were holding them in such a sad position and was extremely heartbroken to learn that overfishing and water pollution were the major reasons. I hope that this piece can raise awareness for all the animals suffering the consequences of water pollution and that, like the girl in the piece, we can guide them to a better future, or in other words, whichever bus you choose to take.