I wanted to express the idea of cells. All creatures are made of cells so I looked for a creature to study. I thought about choosing a beautiful creature, but there were so many choices. I finally chose the ugliest one in Japan, the “Great Salamander.”
I also chose the Great Salamander because they have very mysterious skills. Even if their leg is torn off, they will regenerate the leg with substances from muscle, nerves and bone. “Soon, good as new.”This mechanism is related to IPS cells and is being researched for application to humans.
The Salamander is actually a very delicate creature despite its appearance. It can only live in pure fresh water. For a while it was even at risk of starvation and extinction because of the pollution caused by humans. This tragedy for a salamander is also a tragedy for humans because we all share a structure composed of cells. “We are all in the same boat.”
3-6 30×40 Cells
Cotton Tulle
machine sewing applique
What a fascinating creature, I love the many intricate details in your design!
I love the little guy! Always have loved the family, putting my face underwater in the stream and smiling back at the New York salamanders and yours looks wonderful like it is under water. Beautifully complex cells on view.
So intriguing, the salamander… I recall so many of little menacing creatures I played with in Florida many years ago – and yet, your story and beautiful artwork take me to a totally new adventure with the creature and his cells!