Koalas are the stars of the eucalyptus groves. They shine bright and are at risk because of human made factors. The neon lights surrounding this Koala represent the human influence, both good and bad, that are affecting this vulnerable species.
Koalas are soft and sweet. They also have great big teeth and a bark that scares away predators. Like all of Mother Nature’s creations they contain a balanced multiplicity.
Koalas were my favorite animal as a child. It started as a toddler with a fuzzy Koala pencil holder and a Koala shaped backpack that my sister had the good fortune of picking up with our ma from Toys-R-Us before she lost custody. I am not sure where I got the pencil holder from, some forgotten foster home or maybe a box of donated toys. It did not really matter, they were both wonderful. We tucked the fuzzy pencil holder into the pouch of the Koala backpack and pretended they were momma and joey.
Later, as a teen, I embroidered a Koala on a pillow in my home ec. class and wrote a speech on them in speech class which I illustrated with poster sized drawings. That’s when I learned that Koalas are protective badasses while being sweet/soft. I also learned how Koalas struggled to survive deforestation, wildfires, disease, and cars in their forested homes. These sweet badasses are surviving among factors beyond their control. I found this very compelling. As a teen who could see only the vague outline of a better life at the end of an abusive childhood I could relate to the Koala. As an abused child I kept my sweet/soft side towards the surface as a way to make friends and allies. My sister and I were known as polite and studious kids. To my mind this helped us survive as adults rewarded us with food and/or freedom throughout the school day, both things we were lacking at home. Meanwhile, on the inside, I was a big toothed, loud barking creature waiting to get out. Out of my home, out of the act, out of my angry mind. Just like the tough Koala. Let’s do what we can to help these sweet badasses out🐨💕
You’ll find this piece in Grand Rapids, MN at MacRostie Art Center for the Little Big Show May 3-June 28 where you can view and purchase it. The opening reception for the show is First Friday. May 3, 4-7pm.🎨✨
