The 4 Elements

Kaki Martin
Breathe
2003
Rosemarinis officinalis prostrates (Rosemary herb)

Artist's Statement
Scent is a powerful memory inducer. Dating back to the first century and throughout literature, religious ceremonies and medicine, rosemary has had strong associations with memory, marriage and death. Its historical characterization as the herb of remembrance, and its use in funeral ceremonies to celebrate the fidelity of love, are what make it the essence of my piece.

The rosemary plots create ghost outlines the shape and size of caskets, a subtle visual reminder of buried loved ones. In these rectangular fields, the contrast between the straightforward and tamed landscape of a cemetery — typically well manicured turf and trees — meets the more unpredictable quality of different plant material.

Touch the rosemary and fill the air with its scent.

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