I Am a Lichen: Patterns and Persistence in Art

It’s no coincidence that the organic forms emerging in this new series of paintings resemble lichens—organisms known for their astounding variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, each uniquely adapted to its environment. Their colors come from just a few pigments synthesized by the fungus—shades of grey, yellow-orange, and brown-black—that blend with the colors of their photosynthesizing partners. With only a few variations, lichens create an endless diversity of forms.

From my years working in native forests and ecosystems across Maui Nui, I’ve become closely familiar with these beautiful, resilient life forms. As an artist, I didn’t set out to recreate them, but as I worked, organic shapes began to emerge—shapes that carry many of the unique qualities of lichen. That same subtle variation and surprising diversity arise when I collaborate with the elements, and what appears on the canvas still takes my breath away.

You can view the first works in the Lichen Series below. I hope you enjoy discovering them.