New Growth represents the resilience of life in the wake of transformation. Drawing inspiration from moss, lichen, and fungi—nature’s first signs of life after a forest fire, when the landscape is unrecognizable from what we previously knew it to be—I create sculptures that capture the intricate, often imperceptible details that mirror both ecological rebirth and the evolution of human identity. In an era defined by unprecedented change—a global pandemic, shifting societal norms, and rapid technological advances—the global landscape is forever altered. These organisms, thriving through collaborative networks and adaptive communication systems, remind us that regeneration is a collective process that redefines our foundational growth.
This work invites a closer examination of renewal’s subtle mechanics. Much like the mycelial webs that underpin entire ecosystems, every delicate filament and texture in my sculptures narrates a story of resilience and interconnectedness. They serve as reflective markers of transformation—signaling that even amid profound disruption, both nature and humanity possess the capacity to adapt, recalibrate, and reinvent their existence.
My sculptures are small worlds in themselves, each one a testament to the potential for transformation and renewal. They echo the promise that even in the aftermath of deep upheaval, we have the power to rebuild and redefine our future with intention and care. Through New Growth, I explore the dynamic interplay between nature and humanity—a dialogue of change, resilience, and continuous evolution. In this ever-shifting dance, we discover that our inner landscapes and the world around us are inextricably linked, each influencing the other in a perpetual cycle of growth.
Copyright © 2025 Audrey Zahraa Franklin