Species: Western skunk cabbage (Lysichiton americanus)

Dimensions: 29 x 62.5cm

Despite not having created since her time in Mexico and feeling slightly intimidated by the ambitious vision hidden within its veins, Dessie decided to tackle an enormous skunk cabbage leaf as her first project of 2021. She began carving and slowly, the magnificent form of a stallion’s head and neck emerged. The leaf’s surface is lent a marble-like quality by the natural mottling which occurred during the pressing process, and this serves to enhance the statuesque appearance of this noble and powerful creature. The background utilized for this piece was a project unto itself. Starting with a base of fine canvas, Dessie arranged and layered handmade papers to create a multidimensional feel.