In today's post, I explain a commissioned painting I completed at the end of last semester. The painting includes themes of empowerment, femininity, and love. To begin, this piece is titled The Garden of Me. This is a play on the Garden of Eden…  | McKenna Seavey May 5 | In today's post, I explain a commissioned painting I completed at the end of last semester. The painting includes themes of empowerment, femininity, and love.
To begin, this piece is titled The Garden of Me. This is a play on the Garden of Eden and its biblical meaning. The garden was a paradise, yet sin was still able to emerge. As the LGBTQ+ community is described as sinful by Christians, this piece aims to reclaim that garden despite the claims. The central figure is a woman who does not shy away from imperfections. She is facing away causing viewers to impose an identity on her rather than being confronted with one. Anyone can be this woman; not just one person fits into this painting. The flowers surrounding the figure all relate to the woman through their symbolism. They are arranged in traditional rainbow order reminiscent of the pride flag. Below explains the meaning of each flower and how they relate to the different themes. Red Roses These remain as an iconic symbol of love, passion, and beauty. Historically, the term "rose" was used as an insult towards gay men. This is another example of reclaiming those negative themes and taking pride in one's sexuality. Orange Gerbera Daisy These represent the warmth of a relationship as well as loyalty. Yellow Brown-Eyed Susan These represent resilience due to their ability to grow in inhospitable conditions. This flower's dark center symbolizes the darkness within and displays it as evidence of humanity. Green Carnation This flower was worn by men in the past to signify their homosexuality to others. White Flannel Flower This flower was selected to represent Mental Health Awareness in Australia. It now stands as a representation of strength within oneself. Blue Hydrangea This represents heartfelt emotion and understanding within a relationship as it was gifted to the family of an old Japanese Emperor's lover as an apology. Violet This flower was nicknamed the "lesbian flower" as women in the past would give it to other women as a symbol of their affection and interest. Lilac The color of this flower is associated with Eating Disorder Awareness serving as a memorial of those who passed and encouraging those who struggle to keep pushing forward.
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