A piece about the lack of knowledge about the diversity and awareness around menstruation. Bleeding hearts are used to mimic the cyclical uterine lining shedding. Every uterus and menstrual cycle is unique and varies in length and amount.
A piece that raises concerns about contraception and its accessibility. Displayed as fruits, Condoms (M+F), Birth Control, spermicide, IUDs, and diaphragms are all common forms of contraception but vary widely in availability and accessibility. A stork looms over a couple discussing contraceptives, hinting at the potential future ahead.
A piece that raises awareness of positive and negative relationships using invasive species and native pollinators. Native species such as Black Eyed Susans, Wild Geranium and Canada Anemone are shown in symbiosis with pollinators such as bumblebees, monarch butterflies and hummingbirds. The lily of the valley, an invasive Canadian species, silhouettes the background and looms against the harmony in front.
A piece discussing guilt surrounding self-pleasure. Masturbation is seldom talked about in sexual education. Dying calla lilies represent the “purity” of the individual being ruined, tied to their shame. Self-pleasure is a healthy, normal action, but it is tied to immense shame and guilt in adolescents, especially young women.
A piece analyzing unregulated media consumption and its predatory nature. A beetle is trapped in the strong pull of the Venus flytraps and pitcher plants, reflecting the hypnotic pull of the internet and media on youth.
A piece showing the diversity of plants and flowers and their reproduction- a parallel to human gender and sexuality. Pictured here are various flowers tied to specific reproduction, gender and stereotypes:
Hydrangea: Bisexuality, Genderfluid Trillium: Bisexuality, petal structure Pansy: A term for a feminine gay man Lavender: “lavender scare/marriage.” Ginger: Asexual reproduction (rhizomes) Rose: Transgender casualties // Symbol of love or mourning Green Carnation: A symbol of the queer community, eg, Oscar Wilde Violet: lesbian/sapphic love Tulip: Asexual reproduction (bulb) Strawberry Plant: Asexual Reproduction (stolons)
Early Budding, Late Blooming
Adolescent sex education is lacking, delaying the growth and development of the younger generation. A new botanical perspective allows more awareness and discussion around the topic.
