Crystals of Añakiwi
In this chapter, I returned to Peru to continue my study of natural pigments. Below is the Cordillera Escalara — a natural reserve in the Peruvian jungle. On the other side of this view are farmlands where coffee beans, cacao and vegetables are grown. It is the lush jungle surrounding the art center where I worked.
One of my favorite places to forage for pigments in the area is the Añakiwi river. It’s located on the border of this reserve.
I began to study the unique qualities of each pigment’s personality through the crystalline structure of my paintings.
As I created these, I felt each revealed the light and warmth of the earth.
Towards the end of my stay, we arranged a two day canoe trip into the raw jungle to observe wildlife and plants.
The Pacaya Samiria Reserve is known to house pink dolphins, crocodiles, toucans, snakes and a rich diversity of plant life.
Inside the Reserve