Enduring Nature Series
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0554/9182/1735/files/IMG-0393_2048x2048.jpg?v=1616455997)
A mini series dedicated to exploring the different aspects of abandoned spaces.
In all the time that the Earth has been in rotation, we have only existed 0.004% of that time. People have created society, built great buildings and covered the land in concrete. Despite all of these structures, we all will eventually fade away. What we leave behind will stay for a long time. However, no matter how long-lasting it may be, vines will grow over, moss will peak through the cracks and forests will continue to grow.
The first painting in the series is "Flesh and Vines". The walls are painted to represent the passage of time with the scuffs and cracks in the paint, as well as the slight yellowing of the pink. The view from inside the building looking out symbolizes the bright world beyond the inside of the house.
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0554/9182/1735/files/erika_window_plain_2048x2048.jpg?v=1617494985)
The next painting, "Cracks", is inspired by a photo I took next to a highway here in Charleston. I was interested in the contrast of the bright green moss emerging from the old, cracked pavement. The frog and mushrooms add life to the painting and further represents the interaction of nature with man-made spaces.
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0554/9182/1735/files/Cracks_drop_shadow_1024x1024.png?v=1617569040)
The third painting in the series is "Lost to the Woods". Like the title suggests, this house was abandoned in the middle of the woods and has been left to decay. The house that inspired this painting is located in Goose Creek, SC. The house was originally blue but over time has chipped and faded to green.
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0554/9182/1735/files/Abandoned_drop_shadow_1024x1024.png?v=1617569450)
The final painting in the series, "Dreamland", was inspired by Nara Dreamland, an abandoned theme park near Nara, Japan. The park was closed in 2006 due to a lack of attendance and remains standing today, although not as pretty as it was back in the day.
![](https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0554/9182/1735/files/Erika_Coaster_319999dd-3704-47f1-90f4-c2769fde7219_1024x1024.png?v=1617569402)
As metal will rust and memories fade, nature will always endure.