Title: VEINS OF THE EARTH Dimensions: 40 cm X 40 cm Medium: ENCAUSTIC AND MIXED MEDIA ON BRACED WOODEN PANEL Year Completed: 2021 Country: TRINIDAD & TOBAGO Concept echniques: If Gaia is the ancestral mother of all life, as represented in Greek mythology, then rivers are her veins - the veins of our earth, living vessels of precious freshwater, sustaining so many species… This work is captured in encaustic, with the movement and translucency of the mossy green, wax-based medium reflective of the flowing, freshwater stream of a mineral-rich river. The inspiration for this work was the beauty and vitality of an unspoilt riverscape, the gentle flow of its life-sustaining, freshwater softly cascading over river rocks, weathered over centuries into perfectly rounded gems. The shellac burn technique was used to capture the land and sections of stony riverbed in an organic and almost cellular manner, prompting us to reflect again on the living nature of the earth. A limited colour palette in soothing organic tones was used to echo hues found in nature as well as the sense of peace that flows through us in such a sacred space. As we reflect on the concept of Gaia, sustainer of nature, this work prompts us to reflect on the unparalleled beauty of our natural world and consider how we are embracing our living earth to preserve sacred life. Artist: Alicia Nathai-Achong