Still Life Uprooted by Elizabeth Sundal

Colored pencil on paper. This piece was created recently when I decided I would no

longer accept that comfort, love, and joy seemed like a scarcity in my life. Following this decision, I took a trip to spend two weeks with my dad who lives in Patzcuaro, Mexico

to deal with the feelings of grief and loss that resulted from my decision.

During this trip, as I spent time with my dad –the person who taught me that comfort and love should be limitless in my personal relationships – I created this depiction of a physical bounty that represents the emotional abundance I experienced in Patzcuaro and will continue to

seek in all aspects of my life. The piece blends the unique flavors and textures of Patzcuaro with the familiar motifs of Dutch still life. Calling upon the history of the Dutch still life movement, which ushered in an abundance of art that centered on the beauty of the everyday, I went to the mercados of Patzcuaro with my dad in search of inspiration in common materials that are created with care and pride. 

In the market, I experienced a physical bounty, a wealth of lush blooms, vibrant fruit, and delicious pastries to incorporate into my drawing, but more importantly I felt an emotional bounty that uplifted my creative spirit in a time of mourning. I experienced a kindness and warmth that overflowed from the vendors as I shared with them my plans to draw their products. The hospitality of the people of Patzcuaro, along with the support of my dad, created a space for me to begin to explore healing as I look forward towards a life rich with love and happiness.