THE DANDELION
A Symbol of Resilience
Creative Resident Exhibition
curated by Elizabeth Chubbuck Weinstein
The name derives from the French term dents-de-lion, meaning lion’s teeth
The dandelion is a well-known weed. Yet, this humble plant is also a symbol of hope, healing, and resilience in many cultures around the world from Europe to Asia. Within the Asteraceae family, there are thirty different species of dandelion. The best known in North America is the Taraxacum officinale. Inspired by the jagged shape of its leaves, the weed’s common name derives from the French term dents-de-lion, meaning lion’s teeth. The flowers, leaves, and roots of the dandelion are edible and have been used since ancient times in salads, jams, teas, and wines as well as in herbal supplements to treat a range of ailments from arthritis to depression. Their nectar attracts bees and other insects. Known to pop up unexpectedly in often-surprising locations, this vigorous weed is difficult to suppress and regenerates quickly.
The dandelion has a tap root and hollow stems, each of which eventually develop basal leaves and a single head. Composed of many tiny flowers, or florets, the bloom is bright yellow and resembles the sun. The flower head then morphs into a star-like orb composed of individual fruits, called cypselae, ringed by feathery white hairs called pappi. As the fruits mature, the stalk lengthens, holding up a white moon-like puff ball. It is customary at this stage to make a wish and blow upon the dandelion, sending the little parachutes containing seeds dancing into the wind.
The humble dandelion is the inspiration behind countless aesthetic, literary, and musical pursuits dating back centuries and is still fresh today. Presented from the perspective of nineteen contemporary artists plus one AI (Artificial Intelligence) representing a variety of new and traditional media, this exhibition curated by Elizabeth Chubbuck Weinstein is intended as an uplifting and thought-provoking respite.
Featured Artists:
Leslie Addison & George Yerger (New Orleans)
Muffin Bernstein (New Orleans)
Neil Bromhall (Oxford, England)
Nicole Charbonnet (New Orleans)
Ashleigh Coleman (Mississippi)
Troy Dugas (New Orleans)
Courtney Egan & David Sullivan (New Orleans)
Kelli Scott Kelley (Baton Rouge)
George Marks (Arnaudville/Baton Rouge)
Rikailah “Rickey” Mathieu (New Orleans)
Mary Jane Parker (New Orleans)
Bradley Sabin & Karoline Schleh (New Orleans)
Elizabeth Chubbuck Weinstein is an independent curator, art historian, museum consultant, and writer based in Baton Rouge. Learn more about Elizabeth and our Creative Residency program here.
