First off, let’s start by saying these illustrations are made using fineliner pen. Yes, that’s right. Every little line is painstakingly drawn to create an intricate embroidered style look. South African artist, Marsi van de Heuvel, describes the process as being like that of a ballet dancer “graceful and effortless but the practice of which is in fact very rigid, repetitive and restrictive.” Created for her solo exhibit from last year titled, Ceremony, van de Heuvel focused on abstract markings and botanical florals to explore our inner, intimate landscape and the beauty of human connection.


Describing the show title, van de Heuvel explains, “Our world is full of challenge, chaos and pain; the only thing that makes sense to me in this sometimes trying existence is compassion – those quiet, vibrant moments of connection. Flowers are consolations, they celebrate the ceremonies of life and offer comfort when confronting death. To be compassionate is to be like a flower – open, vulnerable and radiant.”

– Jessie Whipple Vickery