Protector

Robi Smith
Mixed Media on Wood Panel
36" x 36"
$ 3200

This painting is inspired by Dr. Kelly Ablard, who investigates how plants and animals communicate using scents and smell. Western Red Cedar (Thuja plicata) trees are known to live for up to 1000 years and have been stewarded and used by local First Nations peoples since time immemorial. They traditionally use every part of the tree for its specific properties, including medicine, clothing, transportation, storage and building.

Western science now knows that these powerful trees contain a chemical called α-thujone which, at the right dose, is antibacterial, antiseptic, antiviral, and antifungal. It helps relieve respiratory infections and can alleviate symptoms associated with arthritis and rheumatism.

Wild salmon are integral to the health of Western Red Cedar (T. plicata) trees. At the end of their life cycle, the salmon use their keen sense of smell to lead them back to the very stream where they were born in order to continue the cycle of life. In the spawning grounds, other animals such as eagles and bears, feast on the fish. Bears in particular bring the salmon deeper into the forest where their carcasses fertilize the soil and trees. Scientists have linked these two species through a specific nitrogen isotope, reinforcing that all species are interconnected. The health of one depends on the health of others.

The collaboration between myself and Dr. Ablard was sparked by our involvement with Curiosity Collider, an organization that brings together artists and scientists to inspire new thinking and creating.