Ficus Microcarpa Ginseng 2010-2015

This project speaks of the invisible in trace and memory and the history associated with an object. The dead bonsai tree was buried under porcelain clay and made invisible via palimpsest, revealing the trace of a leaf and the apparent outline of the tree. The importance of porcelain in history is referenced, its preciousness and value. The object had importance to its owner. It is watered daily. The tree will decay over time and appear to be alive as it sweats under the bell jar. The bell jar was used throughout time to encapsulate objects for museums, adding to the feeling of preciousness. The plant’s decay is evidenced by the appearance of mold and sweat on the glass, thus indicating the passage of time.

Size: 24 inches high x 12 inches wide

Materials: Porcelain, ficus tree, glass bell jar